Keeping a sketchbook

Art with limited time and supplies

I’ve been traveling and preparing for an out-of-state move, so my art practice hasn’t been as consistent as usual. In times like this, I turn to my sketchbooks to keep my hands and mind engaged in art. Besides practicing drawing, it helps me get centered and attentive to what’s in front of me. Even in the most mundane settings, there is always something to draw.

Airport sketching

I usually throw in a small 4 x 6 sketchbook in my travel bag. There’s always time to draw at the airport, and plenty of models to observe.

Coffee shop sketches

Before COVID-19, I used to love hanging out at coffee shops and sketching and journaling or just doing tedious office work. As I was cleaning out my studio recently, I found these small 4 x 6 drawings, done in greyscale markers and a Sharpie. I was just enjoying playing with the design of the drawings. Seeing these reminds me to get back to my coffee shop ritual (even though sadly, I’ll be drinking herbal or green tea, not coffee now).

Watercolor sketching

If I want to make a little more effort, I’ll head out with my watercolor sketchpad. I especially like it when traveling. Sometimes I watercolor on site, other times, I’ll sketch and take photos, and finish at the hotel, AirBNB, or maybe when I get back home.

There are really no excuses not to keep drawing and art in my life, even when time, space and energy are limited. Give a small sketchbook a try!