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

Nestled in the bustling heart of Rochester, just minutes away from the prestigious University of Rochester and the dynamic Rochester Institute of Technology, Comfort Suites Rochester Henrietta University Area offers a serene oasis for both leisure and business travelers alike. Located conveniently at 2085 Hylan Dr, our hotel is the perfect base to explore the rich cultural heritage and attractions Rochester has to offer, including captivating museums, picturesque parks, and vibrant shopping districts.

Each spacious suite is meticulously designed with your comfort in mind, featuring plush bedding, a separate living area, free high-speed WiFi, and a flat-screen TV to ensure a restful and productive stay. Wake up to a complimentary hot breakfast to kickstart your day. Our thoughtful amenities include an indoor pool, fitness center, and a business center, catering to all your needs. Whether you're here for a university visit, business, or leisure, Comfort Suites Rochester Henrietta University Area pledges a memorable and comfortable experience. 

Comfort Suites Rochester Henrietta University Area

Nestled in the heart of Rochester, NY, the Courtyard by Marriott Rochester East/Penfield offers an unparalleled experience of comfort and convenience. Situated at 1000 Linden Park, this modern hotel is your gateway to the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Upstate New York. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, you'll find our guest rooms and suites provide the perfect retreat after a day of exploration or meetings, featuring plush bedding, free Wi-Fi, and ergonomic workstations. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Bistro, our on-site restaurant, also serving evening cocktails and dinner options. Stay active with our indoor pool and fitness center, or unwind in the picturesque courtyard. With exceptional service and amenities tailored to your needs, Courtyard by Marriott Rochester East/Penfield ensures a memorable stay in Rochester. Experience the mix of tradition and innovation that defines us. Welcome to your home away from home. 

Courtyard by Marriott Rochester East/Penfield

Welcome to Hampton Inn Rochester-Penfield, your ideal getaway nestled in the serene landscapes of Penfield, NY. Situated at 950 Panorama Trail S, our hotel promises unbeatable comfort, exceptional service, and a location that puts you at the heart of New York's breathtaking beauty. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, our modern rooms, equipped with all the necessary amenities, ensure a stay that is both productive and relaxing. Start each day refreshed with our complimentary hot breakfast, stay connected with free high-speed internet, and unwind in our indoor pool. Our proximity to historic Rochester offers easy access to its vibrant culture, exquisite dining, and captivating attractions. At Hampton Inn Rochester-Penfield, we're committed to making your stay memorable, with a friendly staff ready to welcome you with the true spirit of hospitality. Discover your home away from home, where comfort meets convenience. 

Hampton Inn Rochester-Penfield

Nestled in the heart of picturesque Pittsford, NY, The Del Monte Lodge Renaissance Rochester Hotel & Spa offers a perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and serene beauty. This elegantly appointed hotel, located at 41 N Main St, invites guests to experience unparalleled service and sophisticated amenities. Each room is a haven of relaxation, featuring plush bedding, modern décor, and thoughtful touches designed to make your stay unforgettable.

Indulge in rejuvenating treatments at our world-class spa, savor gourmet dining at our onsite restaurant, or explore the charming village of Pittsford along the historic Erie Canal. Whether you're visiting for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, our attentive staff and convenient amenities, including a fitness center and versatile meeting spaces, ensure your experience is seamless.

The Del Monte Lodge Renaissance Rochester Hotel & Spa is not just a place to stay; it's a destination that promises a blend of tranquility and sophistication, making every visit memorable. 

The Del Monte Lodge Renaissance Rochester Hotel & Spa

Nestled in the scenic town of Webster, NY, the Super 8 by Wyndham Webster/Rochester hotel offers travelers a comfortable and convenient stay. Whether you're here for business or exploring the beauty of upstate New York, our prime location at 2450 Empire Blvd places you perfectly to access Rochester's thriving city life and Webster's serene landscapes. Our guests enjoy a selection of well-appointed rooms, each designed to provide a restful night's sleep. Start your day right with our complimentary breakfast, and stay connected with free high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring you're never out of touch with what's important. Just minutes away from Lake Ontario and local dining gems, our hotel serves as an ideal base for all your adventures. At Super 8 by Wyndham Webster/Rochester, we're committed to making your stay memorable, offering the excellent value and warm hospitality that keeps our guests coming back. 

Super 8 by Wyndham Webster/Rochester

Nestled conveniently in the heart of Rochester, NY, TownePlace Suites by Marriott Rochester South offers an ideal retreat for both business travelers and families alike. Known for its comfortable extended-stay accommodations, the hotel provides spacious suites equipped with fully-functional kitchens, allowing guests the convenience of home-cooked meals while on the road. Each suite is designed with separate areas for working, dining, and relaxing, offering a seamless balance of productivity and leisure.

Business travelers will appreciate the hotel’s proximity to major corporate offices and easy access to transport hubs, making it a perfect base for seamless commutes. Families will find the hotel's welcoming atmosphere and kid-friendly amenities ensure a memorable stay, with the added convenience of nearby shops and restaurants.

Guests can enjoy a complimentary continental breakfast that provides a delightful start to the day. The hotel also features a fitness center, allowing travelers to maintain their workout routines, and an indoor pool for relaxation after a busy day exploring the vibrant city.

Located just a short drive from popular attractions like the Strong National Museum of Play and the Rochester Museum & Science Center, TownePlace Suites by Marriott Rochester South makes it easy to explore the best the city has to offer. With its blend of comfort, accessibility, and convenience, this hotel promises an exceptional stay for any guest. 

TownePlace Suites by Marriott Rochester South

Nestled in the heart of Henrietta, New York, the Fairfield Inn Rochester Henrietta/University Area hotel offers guests a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and thoughtful amenities. Just a stone’s throw away from the University of Rochester and moments from downtown, this modern hotel places visitors right where they need to be to explore the best of the area. Our spacious, well-appointed rooms provide a peaceful retreat with plush bedding, free Wi-Fi, and ergonomic workspaces. Jumpstart your day with our complimentary hot breakfast, featuring a variety of healthy and indulgent options. Stay active with our fitness center or take a refreshing dip in our indoor pool. Business travelers will appreciate our convenient services and proximity to key corporate offices. Whether you’re in town for business, pleasure, or a bit of both, Fairfield Inn Rochester Henrietta/University Area is dedicated to making your stay exceptional. 

Fairfield Inn Rochester Henrietta/University Area

Nestled in the vibrant heart of the Chili neighborhood, just moments from Rochester Airport, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham offers a seamless blend of comfort and convenience for travelers seeking a memorable stay in Rochester, NY. This inviting hotel prides itself on delivering an exceptional experience through its thoughtfully designed rooms, equipped with plush bedding, modern amenities, and complimentary Wi-Fi, ensuring a restful night for business and leisure travelers alike. Begin your day with a smile, thanks to our complimentary breakfast, setting you up perfectly for exploring the wonders of Rochester or a productive day of meetings. With a location that puts the best of the city within easy reach, including local dining, shopping, and entertainment options, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Chili/Rochester Airport promises a stay that's not just comfortable, but also enriched with the genuine warmth and hospitality Wyndham hotels are known for. 

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Chili/Rochester Airport

Nestled at the gateway to the scenic Finger Lakes region, the RIT Inn & Conference Center is a premier hotel choice located at 5257 W Henrietta Rd, Henrietta, NY. Our luxurious property combines comfort, convenience, and top-notch service to ensure an unforgettable experience for both business and leisure travelers. Featuring elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites, each stay promises relaxation and rejuvenation. Delight in our world-class amenities, including indoor and outdoor pools, a fully-equipped fitness center, and on-site dining options that offer a taste of local and international cuisine. For business travelers, our state-of-the-art conference center is the perfect venue for meetings, conventions, and events, accommodating up to 500 guests with the latest technology and professional planning services. Whether you're exploring the natural beauty of the Finger Lakes or conducting business, the RIT Inn & Conference Center is your home away from home in Henrietta, NY. 

RIT Inn & Conference Center

Nestled in the charming town of Webster, NY, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Rochester East offers guests a restful and rejuvenating stay. Perfectly positioned at 915 Hard Rd, our hotel places you at the heart of convenience, with easy access to the vibrant city of Rochester and the serene beauty of Lake Ontario. Whether you're visiting for business or pleasure, our thoughtfully appointed rooms and suites are designed with your comfort in mind, featuring plush bedding, complimentary Wi-Fi, and modern amenities to ensure a seamless stay. Start your day with our delicious, free hot breakfast, energize in our fitness center, or unwind in our indoor pool. With a commitment to friendly service and satisfaction, the Fairfield Inn & Suites Rochester East is your ideal choice for experiencing the best of Webster and beyond, making every stay memorable. 

Finding a Likeness: Portrait Drawing for Newbies with Nicholson Baker

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