Keeping a Travel Sketchbook
We are all familiar with packing before a holiday and the decisions
required. ‘What do I need’? ‘What can I carry’? ‘What shall I wear’?
Being an artist presents the same dilemmas and I often end up taking
more than I need!
When we set off for our Icelandic cruise, the sketching started at the services. The quick pictures of cups and cans set the scene and filled the first pages of my book. Once we were on board the ship, I excitedly painted a settling in sketch to send to all the family.
If you have been on a cruise, you will know about sea days when everyone is on board without any stops. It’s a good opportunity to explore the ship and find your favourite places. Once we had found a relaxing lounge, I got absorbed in drawing.
The Icelandic excursions, revealed a country alive and active. My sketchbook seemed glued to my hands as I sought to express what I was seeing, hearing and sometimes smelling!
Most of my outdoor sketches were quick marks and notes, made as I stood or walked around. It was very cold and wet but the thrill of capturing the scene outweighed the weather. I made a few atmospheric drawings, letting the rain react with the charcoal.
Now that we are home, I have been turning the pages of my sketchbook to relive some of the best moments. When we see family and friends, they have the ‘sketchbook tour’ rather than the usual photos. It seems to go down well!
Digital pictures often get forgotten these days so how about a revival
of the photo album with an arty twist?
Have a go at creating your own book of memories next time you travel.
Mix sketches with found materials and your own personal story.
You will find tips to get started and a flip through of my sketchbook in My Artwork / Sketching >>