Have you ever wondered what goes into making an interesting sketch? Then stick around because in today’s post I will walk you through the anatomy of a sketch; or more precisely, a closer look at how I go about creating one of my urban sketches.
Anatomy of a Sketch
When you’re setting out to create a sketch, the first thing of course is to decide on your subject. These days, when I head out with my sketchbook, I’m usually on the lookout for interesting architecture. Fortunately, there’s no end of beautiful architecture in New York City! Yesterday’s sketch was focused on this majestic landmark building at 418 Central Park West:
A Thumbnail Sketch…
Is definitely a good idea – especially when you’re tackling a large and intricate subject such as the pre-war Braender Condominium building, above. To that end, because I only need a small piece of paper for my thumbnail sketches, I’ve gotten in the habit of carrying around TWO sketchbooks:
(The small black Moleskine pocket watercolor sketchbook is for my thumbnail sketches. I reserve my larger blue Moleskine Art Sketchbook for my finished urban illustrations.)
Best-Laid Plans…
Don’t always guarantee initial sketching success – especially when you draw in pen! My first attempt yesterday, though interesting, left no room for adding a human element:
And while urban sketchers often leave out the human element (or just loosely suggest a few people here and there), I prefer to tell a story with each and every one of my illustrations.
If At First You Don’t Succeed…
Try again! While this urban illustration took longer than I originally anticipated, I loved the process and am happy with how it turned out.
P.S.
The print version is now available in my shop at Etsy!