Why Quick Sketches Look More Lively
Welcome to Draw Tip Tuesday!
I always carry my sketchbook, even when I am not sure if I will be drawing.
The key is to stay curious and keep your eyes open, because drawing opportunities are everywhere.
On a recent walk into town, I took a different route and was rewarded with a parked truck that caught my attention. It became the subject of my sketch, and it reminded me how important it is to act on that little spark of inspiration when something stands out. In this drawing session, I focused on using negative space, kept my pen moving to capture the essentials quickly, and let the sketch unfold without overthinking.
Drawing has been part of my life for many years, but it was not always like that.
When I worked at an office job I bought my first sketchbook, filled it with ballpoint pen drawings, and discovered how drawing made me feel more present and alive.
That practice changed everything for me. Drawing everyday life, even the simplest things, adds depth, calm, and joy to the moment.
Materials I used in this drawing
Strathmore 500 series Mixed Media sketchbook, size A5
Sailor Fude fountain pen (55° nib) with Sailor water-soluble ink
Water brush
Kitchen paper
Your assignment this week:
Take a short walk and choose a different route than usual.
Stay curious and notice what grabs your attention. Do not question it, just stop and draw it.
If you would like to use the same subject I did, you can download the reference photo on my Patreon.
More on negative space drawing
