Craftsmanship in Pen and Ink
At Hanson Carlen, we’ve always believed that great craftsmanship is timeless—whether it’s found in a finely built cabinet, the curve of a handrail, or the stroke of a pen. Recently, we had the pleasure of collaborating with a local artist whose work shares that same dedication to detail: Michael Edwards.
Michael specializes in intricate pen and ink drawings of architecturally significant and historic buildings. If you're familiar with Spokane, you’ve likely seen his artwork. He’s captured local landmarks such as the Campbell House, the Steam Plant, the Glover Mansion, the Red Wagon, and many more. His work reflects not only artistic talent but also a deep appreciation for the legacy and character of Spokane’s architecture.
Given his passion for buildings and history, we thought: What if Michael drew some of our homes? It felt like a natural fit—our craftsmanship through the lens of his art.
Michael approached the project with the same level of care and precision we strive for in every home we design and build. He began by visiting one of our completed homes in person, walking the property and studying its details. He took extensive reference photos, and we provided drone images to offer additional perspectives. From there, he carefully selected the angle and composition that would best tell the story of the home.
Only after all this preparation did he begin the meticulous process of drawing—translating architectural form into detailed linework. The result? A hand-drawn masterpiece that celebrates our work in a medium as precise and enduring as the buildings themselves.
Michael’s dedication to Spokane’s architectural heritage shines through in every piece. His drawings honor both the iconic landmarks and the lesser-known gems that shape the city’s unique character. While he is well-known locally, his work also reaches a national audience, with commercial clients across the country commissioning his drawings. As a "Trusted Art Seller" through The Art Storefronts Organization, he stands behind the quality of his work—each piece is as finely crafted as the subjects he depicts.
We’re proud to showcase Michael’s drawing of our project in this newsletter and display his artwork in our office. His ability to capture the spirit of a structure with nothing more than ink and paper reminds us of the timeless beauty of craftsmanship—no matter the medium.
When Michael presented his final piece, we were genuinely thrilled. To see our work represented so beautifully—not in wood and stone, but in pen and ink—was a moment of pride and a reminder of why we do what we do.