Sketchingquick, informal, and simplified drawings...
Sketching is a good way to collect visual information and make quick notes. I use mine, out and about and in the studio and value them as much as any ‘finished work.’
Filling up a variety of sketchbooks is an integral part of my art process.
It’s where I play, explore and record images for my own development and inspiration.
Creating a travel sketchbookA few tips to get you started
Going on holiday, a hike or a weekend away? Sketching the sights and sounds of your trip connects you to the landscape and gives you a visual diary to revisit over and over again. A few tips to get you started
Choose a portable sketchbook suitable for the materials you want to use. I like an A5 book which takes mixed media well, lies flat and has a back pocket to store collage. I enjoy both landscape and portrait layouts.
Team this with your favourite painting and drawing materials. Keep it small and simple. I take water soluble crayons, a water brush, glue stick, drawing pens, charcoal pencil and a small paint palette.
Pack your supplies in an easy to carry bag so that you are ready to sketch anywhere, anytime. This pretty rucksack with its many pockets, makes the perfect art bag.
Collect collage as you go, as part of, or alongside your drawings. I use maps, receipts, tickets, teabag papers, stickers, menus and wrappers etc.
Draw, paint, stick and journal whatever catches your attention. I stuck the map piece on first, using it to frame the rest of the picture.
Begin simply with a few lines if it’s a landscape and the basic shapes for objects. Don’t worry about wobbly lines and shapes - it adds to the charm!
Here’s a list of the specific materials I used to create my travel sketchbook: -
- Leda Art A5 landscape sketchbook
- Viviva Coloursheets
- Derwent Inktense water soluble pencils
- Holbein white acrylic - small tube
- Derwent Line and Wash Paint Set (includes water brush and fine liners)
- Uni Pin or Derwent fine line pens
- Derwent water brushes
- Derwent charcoal pencil
- Glue stick
I have been sketching for many years now and my confidence and skills have grown over time as yours will. The important thing is to make a start and keep going. Find the materials, subject matter and way of working that suits you and ……..
Remember to have fun!
