Sometimes the biggest challenge with art is just finding the time to do it. Sketching solves that problem – it only takes a few minutes to record a slice of life.
My days have been really busy lately, with lots of pre-holiday orders in
my sewing business and two sweet babies to help care for, which
means precious little time for art. So, the other day, when I dashed
into town to run some errands, I decided to do a super-quick sketch at
each of my stops.
 |
| 3-1/2″ x 5″, ink & watercolor in a Moleskine watercolor sketchbook |
I felt very self-conscious sketching the drive-thru at the bank, knowing
the security camera was recording my every move. Would they think I was
planning a heist? And for my next stop, at another bank, I knew I had to
work really quickly as I stood at the table where they keep the blank
deposit slips and that little pen on a chain. I didn’t want anyone
to think I was scoping out the scene for some nefarious purposes!
I was a lot more relaxed for the next sketch at Artbeat. Leaning against a lamp post across the street from the gallery, I was able to complete the ink drawing in just a few minutes. Then I was off to the grocery store where a display of fall mums caught my eye as I sat sketching in the van.
 |
| 3-1/2″ x 5″, ink & watercolor in a Moleskine watercolor sketchbook |
Before heading home, I pulled into the gas station and managed to do a quick sketch during the time it took to pump 18 gallons into my tank. One more stop to pick up a few groceries at Aldi, then I was on my way down the road. Six errands completed, along with six line drawings, all in the course of two hours. Sketching on the go – it’s efficient and fun!
9 Comments
I take it you did the watercolors later? Great work in getting all those quick sketches in! I like them!
Yep, I added the color later in bits and pieces as I had time for it. It didn't take too long, though, since the pages are only 3-1/2" x 5". I tend to prefer working larger, so it's challenging for me to work in this little Moleskine sketchbook. Feels cramped to me, but there's definitely an advantage in being able to finish so quickly.
Love your quick sketch's with so much detail.It certainly is every day life sketchs on the go. I admire your talent to put something so simple onto paper & make me feel I'm there taking part.
Thanks, Barbara. I like the freedom that comes with jotting down a sketch very quickly. No time to fuss and fret over things.
I admire your determination & focus…I think it takes courage to sketch in the context of everyday chores as you are doing…I still have a self consciousness…
Oh, my gosh, I'm so self-conscious about it, too! I just pray that no one will notice what I'm doing. I have to force myself to not be intimidated by the situation, and just do my own thing. I figure the only way I'll get over my hang-up about sketching in public is by doing it more.
I tend to let a moment get away from me before I realize I could have sketched it. It amazes me how much sheer energy it takes to actually do this instead of just thinking about it! LOL Like you, I've got to get over the self-consciousness of it and just get it done! LOVE IT!
Thanks for the encouragement. Let's both agree to not worry so much about what other people are thinking. Hey, besides, they'd probably be thinking, "How cool! She's sketching! Wish I could do that!" 🙂
Wow – what a sketching adventure! What a funny tale to hear of your different stops – especially the one at the bank.