Urban sketching: what it is and why it matters

Urban sketching is the act of drawing and painting scenes from the city, from observation. It often involves using a small portable kit and is known for its loose, expressive style. Sketchbooks are useful for keeping track of progress and documenting work. Urban sketching can improve drawing skills, allow for new interpretations of the world, and capture the essence of a place in a way that photographs cannot. It can be enjoyed by people of all skill levels.

CITY SKETCH

Evgeny Bondarenko

1/10/20222 min read

Urban sketching, also known as on-location drawing or plein air drawing, is the practice of drawing and painting scenes from the urban environment, either from observation or from memory. It is often associated with a loose, expressive style, and is often done quickly, using a small portable kit that can be carried around easily.

Sketchbooks are an important tool for urban sketching, as they allow you to keep track of your progress and document your work. They can also serve as a source of inspiration, as you can flip through your sketchbook and see the places and scenes that you have captured.

City sketcher Evgeny Bondarenko in France
City sketcher Evgeny Bondarenko in France

There are many benefits to urban sketching, both for the artist and for the viewer. For the artist, it provides an opportunity to practice and improve their drawing skills, as well as to observe and interpret the world around them in a new way. It can also be a relaxing and meditative activity, allowing the artist to escape from the distractions of daily life and focus on the present moment.

Urban sketch by Evgeny bondarenko in Paris
Urban sketch by Evgeny bondarenko in Paris

For the viewer, urban sketching can provide a unique and intimate perspective on the world, as it captures the character and spirit of a place in a way that a photograph cannot. It can also be a way to connect with the history and culture of a place, as the artist’s interpretation of the scene reveals their personal perspective and understanding of the location.

Overall, urban sketching is a fun and rewarding hobby that can be enjoyed by people of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, it’s a great way to connect with the world around you and express your creativity.

Urban sketch by Evgeny Bondarenko in Taiwan
Urban sketch by Evgeny Bondarenko in Taiwan
Urban Sketch collection in five artbooks:
Taiwan Urban Sketch Artbook Evgeny BondarenkoTaiwan Urban Sketch Artbook Evgeny Bondarenko
Russia and France Urban Sketch Artbook Evgeny BondarenkoRussia and France Urban Sketch Artbook Evgeny Bondarenko
Chinese Cities Urban Sketch Artbook Evgeny BondarenkoChinese Cities Urban Sketch Artbook Evgeny Bondarenko
Hong Kong Urban Sketch Artbook Evgeny BondarenkoHong Kong Urban Sketch Artbook Evgeny Bondarenko
Shanghai Urban Sketch Artbook Evgeny BondarenkoShanghai Urban Sketch Artbook Evgeny Bondarenko