Discover the art of urban sketching in this immersive 6-week Thursday series led by teaching artist Ann Alexander at Vision Arts Gallery in Myrtle Beach.
This beginner-friendly yet skill-building class introduces students to expressive line work, basic perspective, and watercolor techniques while capturing everyday scenes. Students will progress from photo-based sketches to confident on-location drawing, developing a loose, personal sketching style that blends observation with creative expression.
Each week builds upon the last—starting with foundational line and shape, adding watercolor washes, and moving into speed sketching and real-world environments. Indoor studio sessions transition into outdoor and on-location sketching, helping students gain confidence, flexibility, and creative flow.
By the end of the course, students will have a collection of sketches, a deeper understanding of line-and-wash techniques, and the confidence to sketch anywhere—from cafés and city streets to travel adventures and daily life.
All experience levels are welcome. Come ready to explore, observe, and sketch with joy.
Thursdays: 11am-2pm
Dates: April 2-May 7, 2026 (class #4: April 23)
$260 for all 6 sessions
Instructor: Ann Alexander
Class 1 – April 2: Fundamentals of Line Work. Free-flowing and expressive line, bold shapes, perspective basics using pencil and waterproof pen. Simple subjects from instructor-provided photos.
Class 2 – April 9: Adding Color. Introduction to watercolor. Several sketches from photos combining pen and watercolor washes.
Class 3 – April 16: Speed & Detail. Fast-paced sketching with increased detail and layered watercolor. Several quick sketches from photo sources provided.
Class 4 – April 23: On-Location Sketching I. Indoor or outdoor location. Learning to simplify real-life scenes and capture the essence quickly.
Class 5 – April 30: On-Location Sketching II. Building confidence, observational skills, and expressive color on location.
Class 6 – May 7: On-Location Sketching III & Wrap-Up. Bringing everything together with multiple sketches and group discussion.
Materials needed for class
Uni-ball eye micro UB-150 Rollerball Pens - black, pack of 5
Price: $9.99
Quantity: 1
Fluid Watercolor Paper Block, 9 x 12 inches, 15 Sheets, 140 lb (300 GSM) Cold Press Artist Paper Pad for Painting and Wet Media
Price: $15.49
Quantity: 1
U.S. Art Supply 5.5" x 8.5" Watercolor Book (2 Pack, 76 Sheets Each) - 110lb (230 GSM) Linen-BoundHardcover Artist Paper Pads - Acid-Free Cold-Pressed Watercolor Paper Pad Mixed Media
Price: $18.99
Quantity: 1
Kolinsky Travel Watercolor Watercolor Paint 3Pcs Brushes
Price: $17.99
Quantity: 1
Winsor & Newton Cotman Watercolor Paint Set, Sketchers' Pocket Set, 12 Half Pan w/ Brush by Winsor & Newton
Price: $25.52
Quantity: 1
IYYI Collapsible Cup for Traveling, Silicone Foldable Cup, Camping Mug with Lid
Price: $7.99
Quantity: 1
Pentel Arts GraphGear 300 Mechanical Pencil, (0.5mm) Fine line, 1-Pack, Black Barrel
Price: $4.99
Quantity: 1