Rather than taking place in a studio, urban sketching takes place on location. As the name implies, the subjects of urban sketching are typically elements such as architecture or street scenes, but can also include people and indoor settings such as cafes or even public transportation. It is similar to plein air painting, but rather than focusing on lighting, colours, and shapes, urban sketching emphasises the story or context surrounding the subject(s). Urban sketches are typically quick and loose, as they’re meant to capture a moment in time from the artist’s point of view, much like taking a photo. In fact, sketching while travelling is a great way to commemorate and cherish the experience!

Perfect and polished pieces are NOT the goal! By capturing what’s around us at the time, we can practice and hone our observational skills, and be more present in the moment.

The group typically meets on the third Saturday of each month. Meet us at the lamp post in the centre of Market Square.

Please make sure to bring your own drawing materials. They don’t need to be fancy — a plain sketchbook and a pencil are more than enough to get you started. Simply pick something that you can see, and sketch it!

After about 90 minutes, we’ll head to a nearby cafe or pub for drinks and nibbles (not provided) and to share feedback with each other on our sketches. This is purely optional! You don’t need to share your art, but I’d highly encourage it. The aim of this sketch group is not about the technical quality of your art, but rather telling the story behind it. Why did you pick that subject? What was the easiest/hardest part? What was going through your mind as you were drawing?

• Please note that there will be no guidance or instruction at the meetups, but you are more than welcome to ask your fellow artists for some tips or feedback! If you would also like a little more guidance, there will be an optional booklet available for purchase at the meetup. The booklet will have a beginner's guide to outdoor sketching, basic info such as techniques and tips, and a fun scavenger hunt to get you inspired!

• As we will be primarily outdoors, please dress appropriately. If the weather is too terrible, we can still sketch but it will be in a nearby location instead. There will not be much walking involved, but please note that seating is limited to only what's available in the public area.

• Please make sure to bring your own materials, and money for food and drinks during/afterwards as they will not be provided or subsidised.