‘A Robust Attitude’

5/3/25 Maple Leaf playground

“The enjoyment of sketching derives from the experience of recording the world around you, and your materials shouldn’t hinder that enjoyment.”

-        James Gurney and Thomas Kinkade, The Artist’s Guide to Sketching

Isn’t that exactly what I was just saying in my post about how to downsize your kit?

5/6/25 Green Lake

I’m currently reading the recently republished edition of the classic that probably qualifies as the OG guide to urban sketching. Originally published in 1982 and long out of print, the book includes remastered illustrations by two modern masters (well, many would argue that Kinkade wasn’t a master, but he’s certainly well known). Many consider it one of the bibles of on-location drawing.

I’ll be writing a full review when I’ve finished reading, but for now, I just wanted to mention how tickled I am that their approach and philosophy toward sketching aligns so closely with my own. As my kit keeps getting simpler and smaller, it was reassuring to learn that these two then-young men would have nodded with approval. To go with these sketches from my fitness walks, I’ll leave you with these words from Gurney and Kinkade:

“A robust attitude toward working on the spot will ensure your enjoyment of sketching far more than does your drawing ability. You will find that much of the reason that you go sketching will be for the fun of the outing itself, of being outside, discovering new things, and meeting new people.”

If that’s not the core of urban sketching, I don’t know what is.

5/6/25 Maple Leaf

5/23/25 Cloud City Coffee, Maple Leaf

6/8/25 Mt. Rainier from Maple Leaf Park

6/4/25 Maple Leaf

7/16/25 Maple Leaf