THE TRAVELING SKETCHBOOK
creating memories from home + away
Keeping a sketchbook practice has been one of my best habits as an artist. It helped me explore new ideas that have led to incredible projects, stay disciplined in becoming a better artist, and most importantly, has been a therapeutic part of my day.
I often get asked questions about my sketchbooks, so I thought it would be fun to create an online art class to share step-by-step techniques while offering lots of art advice and tips along the way, with a few "whoopsies" in there too!
I truly believe that being Creative is our Superpower. And once you tap into that energy, the world is at your fingertips. And all you need is 10-15 minutes a day!
About this Class
Instant Access
8 Inspirational Lessons
Sketchbook Tour!
Manageable Bite-Size Videos
Drawing Techniques
Bonus: Downloadable Photo Reference
My Favorite Sketching Art Supplies
Downloadable Videos
3.5 hours of content
Self-Paced
Lifetime Access
All Levels Welcome
$45
Sketching on location: La Selva Beach
You can’t do sketches enough. Sketch everything and keep your curiosity fresh – John Singer Sargent
This beautiful beach is a few minutes from my home, and it's one my favorite spots to breath in the crisp air and smell the Eucalyptus trees all around. Talk about self-care - this place does the trick. I share my technique on how I created this 12 minute sketch using watercolors and neo-crayons (that's less time than a lunch break). And as an added bonus you get to hear the sounds of the waves crashing the whole time!
In the Studio: Random Bits
A drawing is simply a line going for a walk – Paul Klee
Taking a solo nature walk in the neighborhood or park without any devices can be so refreshing. What happens is that you start paying attention to the details – the way the light reflects, how the flowers are growing, whoosh of the birds flying by, and all the different sounds. Pretty soon you'll be picking up random bits (it's why I always have pockets when I walk!) and these make a great still life for a sketch. It's why I call them Random Bits, and I try to always include space to write notes about the walk along the edge.
On Location: Capitola, California
Drawing makes you see things clearer, and clearer and clearer still, until your eyes ache – David Hockney
This quaint neighborhood, Depot Hill, overlooks the town of Capitola. This is one of my favorite places to walk around. All the homes are slightly different, with unique gardens that flower throughout the seasons. There are a few benches to sit and rest while taking in the views (perfect for sketching). I'll share some quick sketches around the town while I am on location.
In the Studio: Bellagio, Italy
I begin with an idea, then it becomes something else - Pablo Picasso
There's nothing quite like Italy. It seeps in beauty. I am lucky enough to have traveled there on a few occasions, and one place in particular always takes my breath away, Lake Como. As we can't all go there together, I hope to bring Italy to you through this lesson. During the lesson, you will see how I focus on certain elements using pen, and in a follow-up video, I'll use a watercolor wash to bring color into the sketch.
2 Sketchbook Tours!
You can't use up creativity - the more you use, the more you have - Maya Angelo
Capturing the beauty in the everyday can lead to so many things. Sketching teaches you to see things differently, from how the light looks or the hidden details in a landscape to the vast array of colors. It also gives you 20 minutes of peace by turning off the noise of our busy life which ultimately leads to less stress, which is one of the main reasons I turn to these books to doodle away in some quiet time. I will share my different sketchbooks from over the years.
This class is perfect for anyone looking to start a sketchbook practice or revamp an old one.
Whether traveling far or exploring in your garden I hope you find enough inspiration from this class
to grab that sketchbook and pen before you head out the door!
About this Class
Loads of Inspiration
Drawing techniques
Encouragement
Pen studies on location and in the studio
Adding washes with watercolor
Capturing the everyday beauty
Tips for creating and keeping a sketchbook habit
Sketching techniques
New ways to illustrate your journey
I am a full-time artist that quit an awesome day job to follow my dream of making art and inspiring others to tap into their creativity. Keeping a sketchbook practice has been one of my best habits as an artist. It helped me explore new ideas that have led to incredible projects, stay disciplined in becoming a better artist, and most importantly, has been a therapeutic part of my day. I recommend it to anyone and everyone no matter where you are in your art journey.
I get questions all the time about this practice, so I wanted you to see how easy it was and to share my best tips and tricks so that you can get started today!
All you really need is one sketchbook and a pen. That's it, the same price as a deli sandwich these days. My classes are all about fun and play, and I am always your biggest cheerleader.