by Alison Hall

In 2012, when I discovered Urban Sketchers (www.urbansketchers.org) I could never have predicted that 8 years later this organization would be a source of inspiration, entertainment, and solace during a global pandemic. 

Urban Sketchers’ (USk) slogan is “See the world one drawing at a time”. I follow several urban sketchers on Instagram and also post my own sketches. I find it fascinating, and inspiring, to see the wide range of styles and viewpoints of cities and neighbourhoods around the globe. This has become all the more meaningful during this pandemic, providing insight, through sketches, into day-to-day life around the planet as we all deal with the pandemic.

Another key aspect of USk is education. When workshops and symposiums had to be cancelled, the volunteers at USk got busy and created USk Talks. These are thoughtfully produced interviews with accomplished urban sketchers that stream live on Sundays at 10am (view later on YouTube). They are informative and inspiring.  http://www.urbansketchers.org/p/usk-talks.html

Here are a few sketches from the past many months. I’m looking forward to sketching on location again soon.
www.everydaysketches.com @alison.sketcher

A view in “downtown” Alexandria from a Glengarry Sketchers meet-up. Can you guess where this is?

Collectif members, send a few images (or one) of recent work to cagac.ca@gmail.com with up to 100 words describing what you did, materials used, inspiration, etc. Maybe share how you’re feeling & how creativity helps. We appreciate an informative, inspiring show & tell. Writers, send us poetry, lyrics, a short piece or excerpt.