Name: Finding a Likeness: Portrait Drawing for Newbies with Nicholson Baker
Start: 2026-10-16
End: 2026-10-16

Rochester, NY, is the third-largest metropolitan area in New York State, nestled along the southern shore of Lake Ontario. With a proud sports tradition, Rochester is home to iconic teams like the Rochester Red Wings (MiLB), Rochester Americans (AHL), Rochester Knighthawks (NLL), and Flower City Union (NPSL). Our vibrant sports culture thrives across all levels, from youth clubs and high schools to elite collegiate programs, creating a strong, year-round foundation for athletic excellence.

The Rochester NY Sports Commission champions Monroe County through the power of sports tourism. By attracting championships, invitationals, and tournaments across a wide range of disciplines, we help fuel the region’s economy and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Each year, Rochester welcomes a growing roster of sporting events, showcasing our top-tier facilities, supportive community, and dedication to teamwork on and off the field.

We invite event organizers, rights holders, and sports professionals to discover why Rochester and Monroe County are ideal destinations for your next competition or tournament. Let’s play in Rochester!

Visit Rochester

Have you ever been curious about illustration but don’t know where to start? Novelist and journalist **Nicholson Baker** thought the same thing until he started teaching himself the craft of drawing during the COVID-19 lockdown. Learn the basics of portraiture from Rochester native Nicholson Baker, author of *Finding A Likeness: How I Got Somewhat Better at Art* (2024) and over a dozen other novels and works of nonfiction. Beyond drawing instruction, attendees will learn how making a portrait, much like writing a character in a story or novel, can be an act of intimacy that inspires empathy, humanity, and social cohesion.

Baker’s portraits will be on view at the gallery in Hinterland Studio from September 10 – October 17.

**Nicholson Baker** has written seventeen books, including *The Mezzanine, Vox, Human Smoke, The Anthologist*, *Baseless*, and an art book, *The World on Sunday*, in collaboration with his wife Margaret Brentano. Several of his books have been *New York Times* bestsellers, and he has won a National Book Critics Circle Award, a James Madison Freedom of Information Award, a Guggenheim fellowship, and the Herman Hesse Prize. Baker has two grown children; he and his wife live on the Penobscot River in Maine.

This workshop is presented as part of our [Rochester Reads 25th Anniversary](https://writersandbooks.org/rochester-reads/) programming. Baker’s portraiture of Palestinian media workers, Israeli peace activists, and everyday people from all over the world speak to the themes in Omar El Akkad’s memoir, *One Day Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This*.

Finding a Likeness: Portrait Drawing for Newbies with Nicholson Baker

Discover a blend of comfort and convenience at Hampton Inn by Hilton Rochester/Greece, nestled in the vibrant suburb of Greece, Rochester, NY. Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, our prime location offers easy access to downtown Rochester, premier shopping destinations, and the scenic shores of Lake Ontario. Start your day with our signature complimentary hot breakfast, and enjoy modern amenities including free high-speed Wi-Fi, a fully equipped fitness center, and a refreshing indoor pool. Each of our spacious, well-appointed guest rooms features a cozy Hampton bed, ergonomic workspace, and a flat-screen TV to make your stay as comfortable as possible. With our friendly, attentive staff dedicated to providing exceptional service, the Hampton Inn by Hilton Rochester/Greece is your ideal home away from home. Experience the perfect blend of comfort and convenience for a memorable stay. 

Hampton Inn by Hilton Rochester/Greece

Experience unparalleled comfort and convenience at the Rochester Airport Marriott, strategically located at 1890 W Ridge Rd, Rochester, NY. A mere stone's throw from the airport, this destination encapsulates the essence of effortless travel and warm hospitality. Our rooms and suites are thoughtfully designed with your needs in mind, featuring plush bedding, high-speed internet, and sophisticated amenities to ensure a stay that is both productive and relaxing. Delight in locally-sourced cuisine at our on-site restaurant, or unwind with a cocktail in the inviting lounge. Stay active with our fitness center, or take a dip in the indoor pool, embracing a sense of rejuvenation. For those blending work with travel, our versatile meeting spaces are equipped with the latest technology, making business engagements seamless. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, the Rochester Airport Marriott offers a personalized and memorable stay, right in the heart of Rochester. 

Rochester Airport Marriott

Treat yourself to a refreshingly modern stay in Rochester, NY!

Stay in style at the Oakfield Hotel & Suites Rochester, an Ascend Collection™ Hotel located in the heart of Rochester, NY, right next to shopping and dining at Whole Foods Market. Our boutique accommodations are ideal for creating one-of-a-kind local experiences that connect you to natural beauty, historic locations, exciting restaurants and cultural attractions. As our guest, you're a 15-minute drive from Lake Ontario’s beautiful shoreline and the Greater Rochester International Airport.

Oakfield Hotel & Suites Rochester, an Ascend Collection Hotel

Discover the ideal stay in Rochester, NY at the Holiday Inn & Suites Rochester-Marketplace, an IHG Hotel. Located at 800 Jefferson Road, our hotel offers easy access to the vibrant city and its popular attractions. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, you'll appreciate our spacious accommodations, modern amenities, and exceptional service. Enjoy our on-site restaurant, fitness center and indoor pool. Perfect for meetings, celebrations, or events, the Holiday Inn & Suites Rochester-Marketplace is the ideal destination for your next stay. Book now and experience a comfortable and convenient stay in Rochester. 

Holiday Inn & Suites Rochester - Marketplace, an IHG Hotel

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Rochester, the Best Western Rochester Marketplace Inn is your perfect home base for exploration and relaxation. Situated conveniently at 940 Jefferson Rd, this hotel places you minutes away from the bustling marketplace, renowned for its unique shopping and dining experiences. Whether you're in town for business or pleasure, our inviting rooms promise a restful retreat after a day of meetings or sightseeing. Delight in complimentary amenities including high-speed Wi-Fi to keep you connected, a hearty breakfast to start your day right, and a fully-equipped fitness center for your workout needs. Our dedicated staff is committed to providing you with an unforgettable stay, ensuring all your needs are met with the warm hospitality Rochester is known for. Explore the charm of the city with ease and retreat to the comfort of the Best Western Rochester Marketplace Inn - where every stay is crafted to be memorable. 

Best Western Rochester Marketplace Inn

Nestled in the charming city of Rochester, NY, Residence Inn by Marriott Rochester Henrietta offers an unparalleled stay experience, combining the comforts of home with the luxury of hotel hospitality. Ideal for both short visits and extended stays, our spacious studio, one-, and two-bedroom suites are designed with fully equipped kitchens, separate living and sleeping areas, and free high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring you have everything you need to feel at home. Begin your day with our complimentary hot breakfast buffet, and wind down in the evenings at our social mixers, a perfect opportunity to socialize or network. With our fitness center, you can keep up with your workout routine, and our indoor pool provides a refreshing retreat. Located at 1300 Jefferson Rd, we're conveniently situated close to top attractions and business hubs, making it easy to explore or conduct business. Experience the blend of comfort and convenience at Residence Inn by Marriott Rochester Henrietta, your home away from home. 

Residence Inn by Marriott Rochester Henrietta

Welcome to Home2 Suites by Hilton Rochester Henrietta, located in the heart of New York's most vibrant town. Our stylish hotel is the perfect choice for extended stays, weekend getaways, and corporate travel. Boasting modern amenities, spacious suites, and a centralized location, you'll be steps away from all that Rochester has to offer. Indulge in complimentary breakfast, stay productive in our 24-hour business center, or relax in our indoor pool and fitness center. Whether you're here for business or leisure, our warm and welcoming staff will make sure your stay is exceptional. Book your stay at Home2 Suites by Hilton Rochester Henrietta, NY today! 

Home2 Suites by Hilton Rochester Henrietta, NY

Welcome to DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Rochester, located at 1111 Jefferson Rd in Rochester, NY. Our hotel offers comfortable and stylish accommodations for both leisure and business travelers. Enjoy our warm chocolate chip cookie upon arrival and experience the exceptional service that sets us apart. Our hotel features modern amenities such as a fitness center, indoor pool and lounge, and complimentary shuttle service to the airport and local attractions. Conveniently located near downtown Rochester and the University of Rochester, we offer easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Book your stay with us for a memorable and enjoyable experience. 

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Rochester

Welcome to Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester/Henrietta, your perfect home-away-from-home while exploring the vibrant city of Rochester, New York. Nestled at 280 Clay Rd, our prime location offers easy access to top attractions, bustling shopping districts, and the myriad of dining options Henrietta has to offer. Whether you're here for business or leisure, our hotel promises unparalleled comfort and convenience. 

Unwind in our spacious, modern rooms and suites equipped with all the amenities you need for a restful stay, including free Wi-Fi, a handy workspace, and our signature cozy beds. Start your day right with our complimentary hot breakfast, energize in our fitness center, or take a refreshing dip in our indoor pool. Our friendly staff is dedicated to ensuring your stay is memorable, offering personalized service that stands out. Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester/Henrietta is more than just a place to stay; it's your gateway to experiencing the best of Rochester. 

Hampton Inn & Suites Rochester/Henrietta

Welcome to Homewood Suites by Hilton Rochester - Henrietta, your home away from home in the vibrant city of Rochester, New York. Located at 2095 Hylan Dr, our hotel offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Whether you're here for business or leisure, our spacious suites equipped with fully furnished kitchens provide all the comforts you need for a memorable stay. Start your day right with our complimentary hot breakfast, and unwind in the evening with our social hour on select nights. Stay connected with free high-speed internet, or take a break and enjoy our indoor pool and fitness center. Situated in Henrietta, you're just minutes away from top attractions, shopping, and dining experiences. Our attentive staff is committed to ensuring your stay is exceptional, making Homewood Suites by Hilton Rochester - Henrietta the ideal choice for your next visit to Rochester. Experience the warmth and reliability of Hilton, combined with the comforts of home, with us. 

Finding a Likeness: Portrait Drawing for Newbies with Nicholson Baker

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