Discovering the Urban Sketchers Community
During my last trip to Penang, Malaysia, I encountered something truly inspiring.
While sketching the Yap Kongsi Temple alone at an art café terrace, a waiter noticed my drawing and asked if I was part of the Urban Sketchers.
Yap Kongsi Temple
I wasn’t, but he explained that it’s a lively community of artists who gather in chosen places to draw together. This mix of talent—from beginners to experts—creates a huge creative energy that I instantly wanted to be part of.
What Are Urban Sketchers?
Urban Sketchers started as a small online community in 2007 and has blossomed into a global nonprofit movement. Their mission is simple: to share the world one drawing at a time. Artists document city life with drawings done on location, giving authentic snapshots of everyday scenes. It’s open to everyone passionate about sketching, whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience.
THE URBAN SKETCHERS SINGAPORE – They are doing really great stuff !
Joining Urban Sketchers Singapore
Living in Singapore, I’m delighted to discover an active local Urban Sketchers chapter.
They organize monthly Sketchwalks—artistic strolls where participants sketch fascinating places along an itinerary. There’s no attendance fee; you just bring your supplies and join in.
It’s a fantastic way to practice sketching outdoors while connecting with fellow artists. If you’re in Singapore and want to join one, let me know—we could meet up and share the creative experience!
A Global Network of Creative Souls
Urban Sketchers has chapters around the world—in Paris, Seoul, New York, Kuching, and many more. Lists and links to local groups make it easy to find one near you, wherever you live or travel. The sense of community and shared passion makes it a welcoming place to grow your skills and meet others who love urban sketching.
Tips for Beginners to Urban Sketching
- Keep it simple: Start with quick sketches focusing on shapes and lines rather than details.
- Use minimal supplies: A small sketchbook, a pen or pencil, and optional watercolors are enough.
- Find comfort: You don’t always need a chair—standing or sitting on the ground like many Urban Sketchers do is perfectly fine.
- Embrace imperfection: Urban sketching captures real life, so don’t worry about perfect lines.
- Join a Sketchwalk: Look for group sketching events online or locally to get inspired and motivated.
Urban sketching is an amazing creative outlet that turns ordinary places into vibrant stories. Give it a try, and you might find yourself seeing the world through new, artistic eyes. Share your sketches and experiences in the comments if you decide to join!
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CONNECT WITH URBAN SKETCHERS AROUND THE WORLD!
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- USK Istanbul
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- USK San Francisco / Bay Area
- USK República Dominicana
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- USK Washington DC
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[…] chair to sit? Just stand and draw! Or like Urban sketchers, simply sit on the floor to […]