An Illustrator in Residence: Sketching at the Alliance Française

Exciting news! For the first time in its history, the Alliance Française is delighted to open its doors to an illustrator in residence. From March 1 to June 30, Kathy Fenske, a sketch artist from St. Paul, will be gracing our halls with her vibrant creations.

Wherever she goes, Kathy's favorite subject to sketch is people. Don't be surprised if you see her drawing you at events or just having a coffee at the Alliance Française. Through her art, she captures not just the physical forms but also the stories and emotions that lie beneath the surface. 

Mois de la Francophonie Opening Celebration, March 1 | Cooking class with Chef Armelle, March 7

During her residency at the Alliance Française, Kathy will be attending events to capture what she sees. You will have the unique opportunity to witness her creative process, from the initial strokes of ink to the vibrant washes of watercolor that bring her sketches to life. She will also offer workshops and expose some of her work in the various rooms of the Alliance. Keep an eye out, and you'll be able to observe her work! 

A reader at the Alliance’s library, March 9 | Mois de la Francophonie Opening Celebration, March 1

About the Artist

Kathy Fenske is a sketch artist from St. Paul. She is one of those people who drew from the Sunday comics as a kid and continued to love drawing. After a long hiatus from drawing, she began sketching a few years ago using ink and watercolor. Kathy loves to sketch while traveling and was one of the artists featured in the Alliance Française exhibit ‘Carnets de Voyage’ in the fall of 2023. Wherever she goes her favorite subject to sketch is people!

Discover her sketches

Bal Folk, March 28

LET’S DANCE! Togo - Hommage en musique, March 29

Le Café by B'beri Desserts, March

Table ronde - Culture et Développement au Togo, March 14 / A volunteer at the library, March 21

Concert Classique, April 12 / Brigid & Elise at the reception, April

Akshay Rao’s Book Presentation, April 24

Garance’s Class, April 25

Breizh Fest, May 17

Joe & Dotty Zahner’s cooking class, May 29

WWII Veteran James K. Kangas at the celebration of the 80th Anniversary of D-Day, June 6

Rhythms in the North, June 20 & 21

Fête de la Saint-Jean-Baptiste at Sibley Historic Site, June 23

Natalia at her desk, June 25


If you have any questions about this artistic residency or if you are an artist interested in a residency at the Alliance Française, please do not hesitate to contact us by e-mail at culture@afmsp.org