Workshop: Drawing Cinematic Stories

In this hands-on workshop, study Wes Anderson's work directly from pieces displayed on our major exhibition Wes Anderson: The Archives to develop layered compositions, cinematic framing, and playful spatial illusions inspired by the director's unique visual language.

After an inspiring visit to the exhibition, participants will work on sketches to uncover the methods behind the director’s distinctive image-making. Through guided exercises, you’ll experiment with scale, layering, and framing, creating compositions that play with perspective, contrast, and theatricality.

You’ll explore toy-theatre-style collages, cross-section 'dollhouse' views, and storyboard techniques that move between sweeping overviews and intimate details.

Whether you’re interested in illustration, animation, set design or storytelling, this workshop offers new ways to observe, construct, and narrate visually. Expect a creative day of sketching, cutting, composing, and reimagining Anderson’s cinematic charm on paper.

Learning outcomes:

• Compositional design and spatial layering

• Visual narrative development

• Experimentation with scale and proportion

• Observational and concept sketching techniques

Please note:

• This workshop includes a brief visit to the Wes Anderson: The Archives exhibition

• Capacity is limited, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment

• All equipment, materials and light refreshments will be provided

• This workshop is suitable for adults 18+

• This workshop is for participants aged 18 and over, and the content has been designed with adult learners in mind

• If there’s anything we can do to help you take part, whether it’s around mobility, sensory access, mental health, communication preferences, or anything else, you’re welcome to share this with us at ticket checkout. This is entirely optional, and you can share as much or as little as you feel comfortable with

• You're also welcome to bring a companion if you'd benefit from 1:1 support during the workshop. Companion places are free - please email DMAcademy@designmuseum.org with your booking information so we can reserve your spot

• This session is led by 2 facilitators and will accomodate up to 25 participants

• If you have any questions, or would prefer to chat to someone directly, get in touch with us at DMAcademy@designmuseum.org. We’ll do all we can to support you

"I felt both challenged and encouraged/given confidence in a really well-balanced way"

"It transported me into a mindful space and reminded me why we draw in the first place"

Background image and carousel drawings: Previous workshops at the museum and facilitators archives.