Sketching the Powell Library, Los Angeles – a drawing tutorial by Dan Hogman
by Dan HogmanApr 08, 2020
by Dan HogmanPublished on : Mar 11, 2020
The Farmers and Merchants Bank from Downtown Los Angeles is globally known as one of Southern California's finest examples of the early 'temples of finance' and a key figure in economic development of early Los Angeles, the US.
This time Dan Hogman sought his subject in this seeming 'Roman Temple' while he was on a visit to the city in April 2019. Post the creative unwind, he sketched a vignette revealing a glimpse of the building's fascinating Classical Revival style architecture. In quick strokes and earnest precision, our columnist brings to paper the two-story landmark that still stands in its glory even after being constructed more than 100 years ago, by local firm Morgan and Walls.
Bit by bit, the building takes shape in the video, revealing elements of its front and side façade, which are punctuated by monumental Corinthian columns and a pedimented roof.
As final touches, Hogman adds depth to the sketch by filling solid ink around the arched door, vertical windows and roof’s underside – giving us a rather realistic avatar of this historic building.
by Anmol Ahuja Aug 21, 2026
A conversation with the 2026 winner of the Royal Gold Medal for architecture spotlights his body of work, the philosophies grounding it and the framing of legacy in an active career.
by Mrinmayee Bhoot Aug 19, 2026
The London-based studio elaborates on their investigations into how the food we consume links us to larger ecosystems, and how that can be a tool for resistance.
by Pranjal Maheshwari Aug 18, 2026
The Lebanese designer accentuates the material history, motifs and spatial rhythms of Tashkent’s Okhun Gozar, extensively using wood to transform it into a crafts salon.
by Pranjal Maheshwari Aug 14, 2026
In conversation with panellists at the UIA World Congress in Barcelona, STIR probes their analysis of the symposium’s theme and its importance in the face of global polycrises.
Enter your details to sign in
Don’t have an account?
Sign upOr you can sign in with
a single account for all
STIR platforms
All your bookmarks will be available across all your devices.
Stay STIRred
Already have an account?
Sign inOr you can sign up with
Verification link sent to check your inbox or spam folder to complete sign up process
Tap on things that interests you.
Select the Conversation Category you would like to watch
Please enter your details and click submit.
Enter the 6-digit code sent at
Sketching the Farmers and Merchants Bank, LA – a drawing tutorial by Dan Hogman
by Dan Hogman | Published on : Mar 11, 2020
What do you think?