The Saturday Sketchers

A year or so ago I posted about an informal group who go sketching on Saturday afternoons (linked at the foot of this post). It's a group of folks of varied backgrounds and artistic interests, a professional or two and the rest committed painters. The organization is barely organized, meaning there's no hierarchy, bylaws, dues, or any folderol. We meet at 1 pm to decide on a place to paint--mostly nearby--for an hour or two. Afterward we meet for refreshment and to share work, discuss art, artists and a lot more. 

"Early Color in the Rose Garden," ink and watercolor on paper

Having such a group to work with, even when you can't do it regularly, provides a kind of anchor to the week's work. It's a time without deadlines or clients, a time when you can practice without worry. It's fun, and when the weather cooperates painting or drawing outside can be a sublime pleasure. 

"With the Saturday Sketchers," ink and watercolor on paper

This year's times outside have been great times of observation and thought, and mostly cooperative weather. After November 1, though, the weather inevitably turns cool, the skies close in, and winter lumbers in. I'm hoping to go out a few or times before cold reality arrives.

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The Saturday Sketchers