Visual thinking is my passion. It’s my favourite tool for work, meetings, reflection, communication, summarising ideas, and making sense of complexity.
A few years ago, I launched a sketchnoting course for colleagues at the European Commission, where I work (although not as a visual thinker). Through this course, I help people discover the power of visual thinking and explore how they can use it in their daily work.
Outside my day job, I am an active member of the global visual thinking community. Since 2017, this wonderful community has gathered every year in a different country to learn from one another, share experiences, and find inspiration.
This year, I am delighted to co-organise Beyond Visuals together with Federica Tabone.
The event will take place in Verona from 31 July to 2 August 2026. For the first time, the International Sketchnote Community (ISC) and the European Visual Practitioners (EVP) are joining forces to create one shared event, fully organised in BarCamp style.
The event is open to everyone, whether you are just curious about visual thinking or already an experienced practitioner.
But you may still wonder: What will I gain from attending?
We asked future participants why they want to come to Beyond Visuals and what they hope to experience in Verona. Their answers give a great insight into the spirit of the event and the conversations we will have together.
Here is my graphic summary:
Beyond the learning, networking, and inspiration, many of the answers reminded us of something beautifully simple: joy. The joy of geeking out over pens and paper, sharing good meals, discovering a city together, and creating memories that live both in sketchbooks and in the heart.
“Have fun laughter, nerd out over pens, paper, equipment, set ups.”
“Oh and new markers: you can’t have too many markers.”
“Good food, local vibes.”
“Discovering Verona together.”
“Fun and sun, Italian ice cream and pizza, coffee, and walks through the historic centre.”
This camp is not only about visual thinking. It is also about slowing down, being present, sharing experiences, and enjoying the little things that make creativity feel alive.
Renewal and impact
“The world is not that bad after all.”
“A revitalized belief that art and artists can make a difference.”
“I’d leave with the envy to do more with sketchnoting in my daily work.”
“A deep sense of gratitude for the renewed perspective I gained.”
Learning and growth
“There isn’t a single ‘right way’ to do this.”
“Hearing completely different approaches was energizing.”
“How different cultures can make working together so much better.”
“Find your own voice and style.”
Sharing and inspiration
“Many sketchbooks! Filled with hundreds of sights and insights.”
“I want to improve my drawing and boost my self-confidence.”
“I’d have really bad sketches too… reminders not to be perfect.”
“I feel the wind in my wings and total freedom in my creativity.”
People and connection
“A warm feeling of hugs from my (new) friends.”
“A big family, though we meet just once a year.”
“Reconnect, share our artistic practices, and discover Verona together.”
“The people and their openness in connection and sharing knowledge.”
If their words resonate with you, perhaps it is a sign that you should join us in Verona. Come and experience three days of learning, sharing, creativity, and meaningful connections with people who believe in the power of visual thinking.
Curious to know more?
Visit our event website, explore the programme, and secure your ticket before the available places fill up. Don’t hesitate to follow us on Instagram for the latest news.