Finding Your Perfect Spot: The Secret to Enjoying Urban Sketching
It was around 2 PM, and I was excited to find a spot to sketch.
I headed to the Jetty for its stunning view of the sea. But I didn’t quite prepare for the scorching Penang sun—over 30°C blazing high above with nowhere to hide.
I kept walking because the view was irresistible, but after a while, the heat made me realize sketching there for long would be impossible.
I’d end up rushing to find another sketching spot, and that’s the last thing you want when trying to capture a moment with your pen.
Timing Is Everything: Don’t Rush, Let Sketching Flow
Here’s a tip I always share with beginner designers: find the right time to sketch, not just the right spot. I went back to the cool, shady spots in town—under a tree, near a quiet café—and waited.
Around 6 PM, I returned to the Jetty as the sun softened, casting warm, gentle light perfect for sketching.
If you’re working with color, that pre-sunset hour is even more magical—warm skin tones, soft diffused shadows—it’s your moment to capture the real world’s warmth.
I often find that waiting patiently for this right moment not only improves my sketches but also lets me enjoy the process without the pressure.
Less Is More: Expressing Mood with a Few Lines
That evening, seated quietly by the edge of the Jetty, I watched a man cleaning his boat during low tide.
With just a few simple lines, I tried to capture not just his figure but the peaceful atmosphere all around.
Sometimes, you don’t need every detail to tell the story. This minimalism helps you focus and trains your eye to see the essence beneath the surface.
A reader once told me that they sometimes skip construction lines and go straight to the essential to save time and energy.
I love this approach because it sharpens your ability to capture life’s fleeting moments without getting bogged down.
Try it next time—see what emotions a few lines can evoke.
Productivity Meets Leisure: Balancing Focus and Enjoyment
As designers, we often talk about productivity during sketching—to be quick, efficient, and purposeful. But I believe there’s immense value in also sketching just for pleasure, without pressure. Urban sketching is a way to connect with the world, discover shapes, and feel the city’s rhythm. It’s a little escape, like my peaceful time by the Jetty that evening, when it was just me, my pen, and the sea breeze.
My advice for beginners: listen to your body and your surroundings. If it’s too hot or noisy, find a better spot or come back later. Sketching isn’t a race; it’s a journey of discovery.
Final Tip: Make Your Spot Count by Observing and Adapting
A good sketching spot is not just about a beautiful view, but also about comfort, light, and mood. Over the years, I’ve learned to watch the sun’s path, check the weather, and scout locations ahead of time. When the spot works for you—for your creativity and comfort—sketching turns into a joyful experience rather than a struggle.
Next time you go urban sketching, take your time to find that perfect place. And remember, even if your first choice turns out too hot or too bright, adapting and coming back at a different time can make all the difference in your sketch quality and enjoyment.
See yah!
Cheers,
Chou-Tac
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[…] a method I sometimes use when I draw urban sketching. I go straight to the essential with a minimum of construction […]