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| © Barbara Weeks |
Urban Sketchers-Chicago has been happy to welcome many new members to our group. Some are new not just to USk-Chicago but to sketching in public as well. The Urban Sketchers manifesto says “we draw on location”. That may cause a little hand trembling, at least it did for me when I first started drawing out in the open. Here are a few things I’ve learned.
Tips:
What equipment? Keep your gear to the minimum. It’s easier to manage in small spaces, easier to keep track of and easier to gather up when the day is done. Check out our Pinterest board for sketch kit ideas.
Where? A coffee shop is a great place to sketch especially when you’re just starting out. So many people are busy on their computers, tablets or phones they don’t even notice what you’re doing. Added benefits - you have a comfortable seat, a table and something to eat or drink! Outside, try to fine a spot where people can’t come up behind you. Position yourself with a wall, corner or post at your back. It gives you something to lean on, too.
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| © Barbara Weeks |
What about the public? People are curious when they see others sketching. They're also usually very complimentary and respectful. Children are fascinated. If you don’t want to be interrupted wear ear buds and listen to music (or pretend to) and avoid eye contact.
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| © Barbara Weeks |
Sketch with friends. There is a comfortability in numbers. The tab “Sketch Crawls” on this blog’s navigation bar tells you where and when we’re meeting next. Join us.
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| © Barbara Weeks |
Post your location sketches on our FaceBook page. The encouragement and feed back from other urban sketchers is invaluable.
Benefits:
- Sharpened powers of observation.
- Learn to work quickly.
- Teaches you to take risks and improvise to get the sketch down.
- Overcome selfconsciousness and become a more decisive painter.
- Have fun meeting and learning from other sketchers.
- “Show the world one sketch at a time!”
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| © Barbara Weeks |
Another wonderful post, Barbara! I wish I had that when I just started and needed more confidence. Thank you!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Alex. It can be hard to walk into a group not knowing what to expect. I like the newbies to know they're welcome here because they certainly are.
DeleteGreat summary of of great tips garnered from experience. I too wish that I had this information before I started!
ReplyDeleteAs they say experience is the best teacher but a little forewarning is a big plus in my book! I'm glad you enjoyed the post.
DeleteGreat reminder of some of the basics Barbara! The USk group really has been an invaluable asset to me since joining myself.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Andrew. And what an asset YOU are to the group!
DeleteIt is really a beautiful and creative blog having some vital information over the subject. Thank you for share.
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