Hello everyone! Welcome to my little corner of the internet. I’m an artist, animator, and urban sketcher navigating the vibrant and sometimes challenging landscape of India. Today, I want to share the ups and downs of urban sketching in our beautiful country and how I turn these challenges into sources of inspiration.
The Beauty and Complexity of Urban Sketching
Urban sketching is a way of capturing the essence of a place in real-time, right there on the streets. While it’s a popular practice in many parts of the world, with many dedicated members going around and capturing their surroundings, it’s still a rare sight in India. Despite the prevalence of social media influencers filming videos in public spaces, setting up an easel and sketching in the open often draws puzzled looks and unwanted attention.
The Challenges of Urban Sketching in India
One of the biggest challenges I face as an urban sketcher is the constant curiosity and misunderstanding from the public. People often stop to watch, ask questions, or even make comments that can be distracting. Sometimes, the attention can be overwhelming, especially when people don’t understand what urban sketching is all about. Even the security officials object to sketching in public spaces even if it’s allowed, since this medium is unknown to them.
Setting up an easel in busy places like markets or tourist spots can be tricky. Unlike photographers or vloggers who can blend in with the crowd, sketching requires a bit more space and time. Finding a spot where I can work comfortably without obstructing others or drawing too much attention is often a challenge.
India’s diverse climate adds another layer of complexity. Sketching outdoors in the scorching heat of summer or the heavy rains of the monsoon can be tough. The environment also affects my materials — paper can warp in humidity, and colours may not dry properly.
Turning Challenges into Inspiration
While the attention can be distracting, it also presents an opportunity to educate people about urban sketching. I’ve learned to embrace curiosity and use it as a chance to engage with the community. Explaining my work and sharing my sketches often leads to interesting conversations and new connections.
Urban sketching also has other benefits. Looking for spots to sketch, my sense of navigating around cities has improved tenfold. Navigating public spaces has led me to discover hidden gems in my city — quiet alleys, serene parks, and lesser-known spots that provide perfect sketching opportunities. These places often become my favourite spots, away from the hustle and bustle. (Pro Tip: it sometimes also lets you enter places you’re normally not allowed to).
Adapting to India’s diverse climate, from the scorching sun of Delhi to the chilly mountains of Himachal and even the sandy beaches of Goa, has made me more resourceful. I’ve learned to carry lightweight materials, find shaded spots, and even sketch from inside cafes or public transport. Each challenge has taught me to be flexible and creative in my approach.
Tips for Fellow Urban Sketchers in India
- Portability is key! Carry a compact sketching kit with only essentials like a small A5 sketchbook, 2–3 pens maximum, and a small watercolour set of 12 if you want to add in some colour. A portable stool from decathlon or a foldable easel can be handy, but be ready to sketch standing or sitting on the ground if needed. I have travelled all over India with just one sketchbook and 2 pens in a sling bag for sketching, and honestly, that’s all I needed.
- Be mindful of your surroundings and be respectful of public spaces. Avoid blocking pathways and be considerate of people’s privacy, especially in crowded areas. Use the opportunity to engage with curious onlookers. A friendly explanation can go a long way in creating awareness and appreciation for urban sketching. I’ve had some people join in some sessions like this.
- Explore different parts of your city to find comfortable sketching spots. Parks, quiet streets, and less crowded tourist spots can offer a more relaxed environment if starting out.
- And lastly, know your rights. According to ASI, no permission is required to sketch ASI monuments if not using an easel, stool, or large drawing board, and the Taj Mahal is off limits strictly. Otherwise, you’re good to go!
Urban sketching in India comes with its own set of challenges, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. The vibrant culture, the historic monuments, diverse landscapes, and the everyday hustle of life here provide endless inspiration. By embracing these challenges and turning them into opportunities, I’ve grown both as an artist and as a person.
Keep creating, stay inspired, and remember: every challenge is a chance to discover something new. Happy sketching!
Urban Sketching in India: Embracing Challenges and Drawing Inspiration was originally published in Gameskraft Design on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.
