Want to sketch Goa but don't know how? Team up with Urban Sketchers

If you enjoy sketching, love the raw beauty of capturing life as it is, or seek a fresh way to view your surroundings, Urban Sketchers Goa is the right community for you.

This artistic group, officially recognised on November 1, 2019, offers a space for everyone — from seasoned artists to curious onlookers — to appreciate sketching as a means of capturing real-life moments.

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

Urban Sketchers Goa, a local chapter of the global Urban Sketchers movement, was established in 2017 by Darpana Athale and Mukund Athale.

Their vision, later formalised with the support of fellow Yash C, creating a platform for community-driven art.

Currently, the Urban Sketchers Goa team includes Leandra Fernandes and Andrea Fernandes, both of who bring their creative talents to the group.

Darpana explains, “There is no hierarchy or specific work assigned to one person.

"Within this, we also play up our strengths as much as possible —Leandra is great at social media and comes up with innovative ways to connect online, while Andrea is fabulous in terms of structuring, planning, and finance,” she continues.

JOIN IN: The Urban Sketchers Goa group regularly organises sketchwalks for art lovers.

Darpana adds that since she is one of the Indian coordinators, she has a strong network with Urban Sketchers, both in India and abroad, and is also responsible for the group’s vision, ensuring they move in the right direction.

The Goa chapter arose from a shared passion for documenting their surroundings, embracing a fresh perspective that fosters connection through and historical documentation.

The organisation welcomes everyone — no matter what their age, skill level or background.

GROWING COMMUNITY

Urban Sketchers Goa isn’t a private or exclusive group. The organisation welcomes everyone — no matter what their age, level or background.

Members, and that includes children as young as five to people over 80, come from all walks of life — artists, engineers, homemakers and more.

WELCOME ALL: Urban Sketchers Goa welcomes everyone irrespective of age, skill level or background.

The group has over 2,000 followers on Instagram, 300+ on Facebook, and a core network of about 100 active members on WhatsApp.

For those wanting to join, there are no registration requirements; you simply show up at their gatherings.

CAPTURING GOA AND BEYOND

While the group primarily focuses on sketching Goa’s locales, members also sketch during travels, documenting experiences beyond the State.

Subjects vary widely, and include people, animals, bustling markets, serene landscapes, historical structures and modern urban scenes.

PRETTY AS A PICTURE: Some of the sketches done at the art walks, organised by Urban Sketchers Goa.

WHERE TO SEE, BUY THE SKETCHES

For those looking to own a piece of Goa’s art scene, sketches by the group are available for purchase on their social media pages. Commissioned work is also available and can be requested through their platforms.

Urban Sketchers Goa has even proposed showcasing their art as signboards for heritage sites, bringing a unique touch to Goa’s cultural landscape.

WORKSHOPS & LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

For anyone interested in learning, Urban Sketchers Goa conducts sketchwalks and workshops, offering newcomers the chance to learn sketching in an informal setting.

Announcements for upcoming workshops are posted on their and Facebook pages, so keep an eye out for updates.

Urban Sketching offers a unique way to connect with one’s surroundings, develop artistic skills, and appreciate urban life from a different perspective.

Whether you’re a , a tourist or just a curious artist, Urban Sketchers Goa is a welcoming community that captures and celebrates the spirit of Goa through art.

DETAILS

WHAT: Urban Sketchers Goa

INSTAGRAM: @Urbansketchersgoa

FACEBOOK: @Urbansketchersgoa