The freedom of the sketch and the tyranny of the digital image

The contemporary architectural studio places more emphasis on digital production than traditional process. The reason this is problematic is the easy access to, and the often naïve utilisation of, prefabricated elements available within advanced CAD systems limiting a student’s potential. This paper presents the traditional mode of [architectural] graphic production via the medium of the sketchbook, viewed through Deleuze’s position on the virtual and actual. The discussion is then opened up by referencing Baudrillard’s commentary on contemporary media, initiating an interrogation of the digital image as a conduit of architectural ideas. The paper argues that the architectural sketchbook opens up infinite virtual possibilities that are lost, ironically, when dictatorial digital technologies are the sole agency in designing built artifacts. The paper seeks answers to the question of how to embrace existing and emerging technology while maintaining the critical, inquisitive, and inspired [designer’s] mind