The Act of Noticing
Sketching is all about noticing. When you take time to observe, you slow down and become more aware of the world around you. Instead of rushing past, you begin to truly see and appreciate your surroundings. Drawing allows you to investigate, study, and connect with the world as if you are seeing it for the first time. The goal isn’t perfect accuracy. It’s about creating memories and capturing moments that become stories. Learning to draw isn’t about flawless technique. It’s evidence that you were present and engaged.
In recent years, I’ve shifted my perspective on both art and teaching. I once believed in striving to be the best artist possible and encouraged my students to push themselves relentlessly. But this approach often led to burnout and frustration, which misses the true purpose of art. Now, I start my classes by asking if anyone has been commissioned to create work during our session. When the room goes quiet and smiles appear, I say, “Thank God! Now we can have some fun!” I’ve come to believe that enjoying the creative process is key to artistic growth. Playfully exploring materials and ideas lays the groundwork for great art. While practicing foundational principles and techniques is valuable, in a world increasingly shaped by AI, it’s our human creativity that truly stands out.
People who love to draw aren’t always the most skilled artists, but I now understand why they keep going, smiling and laughing along the way. They create art for themselves, free from rules or restrictions, simply enjoying the process. My own recent artwork reflects this, spanning styles from cartoony to realistic, colorful to monochrome, from loose scribbles to fine lines. Allowing myself to play, without a fixed outcome, has been liberating and truly enjoyable.
This new approach has changed the way I sketch and teach. I focus on observing the story in each moment: soaking in the movements, the wind, conversations, sounds, and the unique atmosphere of the space I’m in. I ask myself what feels right in the moment. Do I have time to linger, or should I sketch quickly? Either way, what matters most is capturing the experience. I choose materials to match the situation: quick sketches with ink or markers when time is short, watercolors when I can slow down. I’ve never regretted taking a few minutes to draw what’s around me. Even when I don’t have my usual supplies, I’ll grab a pen and sketch on a napkin or takeout box. These often become my favorite memories. Seeing art through this lens is freeing. It allows your inner child, full of curiosity and wonder, to awaken and see the world anew. Suddenly, everything around you becomes interesting and worth capturing as a story.
If you’re ready to let go of the pressure to create perfect art, I invite you to slow down and start noticing your world. One sketch at a time. This is at the heart of every Artventure Retreat and workshop I lead: helping you rediscover creativity through observation, play, and mindful connection. Whether you’re traveling with us or joining a local session, you’ll find a welcoming space to explore, experiment, and capture your own stories. I’d love for you to join me and our creative community, where you’ll pick up practical tips and inspiration to carry into your daily adventures. . . wherever they may take you.
Your Art Buddy,
Julie