The number one request of my new students is to learn to loosen up, to sketch more freely, with more fresh and lively results. This starts with fresh attitudes that give us permission to focus on capturing character and spirit over textbook accuracy. We’ll learn specific techniques that foster a loose approach, along with tips on particular tools that lend themselves to lively lines and tones. You’ll watch demos, we’ll work through quick sketching exercises, and you’ll produce a number of fun sketches in black, white and gray tones and with quick watercolor washes.

Participants will take away new ways of thinking as well as technical skills and new confidence.

• Learn foundational attitudes that will free you to jump into rapid sketching
• Unleash your intuition and discover more of your own untapped potential
• Learn where to start, and tips to keep the pen moving
• Learn line and tone drawing techniques to use singly or in combination that will help you sketch more rapidly, and thus more freely
• Learn fast watercolor wash techniques that result in fresh, vibrant sketches

• Fine line pen with waterproof black ink, such as MICRON .05 OR uni-ball eye fine UB-150
• Pen with medium-wide nib with waterproof ink such as MICRON 08 OR Fude nib fountain pen, such as Sailor Fude De Mannen Bamboo Green or similar with waterproof black ink
• GRAPHIK Line Maker pen in Graphite color, OR mechanical pencil .07
• Tombow Dual Brush Pens, gray tones N45, N65 and N95
• Watercolor sketchbook—minimum size 145x210mm or 5x8 inches, larger is fine.
• Travel watercolor set
• Traditional brushes or water brushes, one medium flat, one medium round
• Small rag
• Small leak-proof plastic container of water
• Small lightweight folding stool (optional)