Urban Sketchers Symposium in Buenos Aires 2024
Participating in the Urban Sketchers Symposium for the first time was an exhilarating experience—made even more special by the opportunity to hold a demo at the iconic Plaza de Mayo. Buenos Aires captivated me with its breathtaking beauty, grand scale, and vibrant atmosphere. The event brought together a remarkable community of sketchers, all sharing the same passion, and offered the priceless chance to meet many artists I’ve admired for years.
From the moment I arrived, I could feel the unmistakable buzz of creative energy. In the early mornings, groups of artists spread across the city’s neighborhoods—San Telmo’s historic streets, the grand avenues of Recoleta, the chaotic beauty of La Boca.
My demonstration at Plaza de Mayo was an unforgettable experience! I’ll admit, I felt a bit nervous at first, but the incredible warmth and enthusiasm of the participants and volunteers quickly put me at ease. What started as a session to share my sketching techniques turned into a beautiful exchange of energy, ideas, and inspiration. The kindness and engagement of everyone there made it truly special—an experience I’ll always cherish!
Sketching in Puerto Madero was pure magic! The mix of historic ships, modern skyscrapers, and the iconic Puente de la Mujer made for an inspiring session. I loved capturing the contrasts—the calm water, the city’s buzz, and the ever-changing light. One of those perfect sketchwalks where time flies, and you just want to keep drawing!
Sketching from a street food café on Avenida Corrientes, just soaking in the energy of Buenos Aires. The massive avenues, towering buildings, and constant movement are overwhelming in the best way. Tried to capture that mix of chaos and charm—buses, traffic lights, people, and those little unexpected details that make the city come alive.
Drinks, sketches, and great conversations at Kraken Bar!
There’s something special about sketching in a lively bar—the neon lights, the buzz of conversations, and the challenge of capturing movement in a fast-paced setting. The evening was all about relaxing after a full day of drawing, exchanging experiences, flipping through sketchbooks, and learning from each other.
Between sips of beer and quick gestural sketches, we shared stories, techniques, and laughter.
Gouache, color, and energy with Maru Godás at Plaza Dorrego!
Maru’s workshop was all about bold contrasts, expressive brushwork, and capturing atmosphere with gouache on colored paper. The vibrant technique matched the lively spirit of Buenos Aires, pushing me to see urban scenes in a fresh way. Truly inspiring!
Correspondents on the Rooftop
A perfect mix of sketching, storytelling, and rooftop breeze. Jeroen Janssen, deep in his correspondent duties, became an unintentional model as symposium participants sketched, sipped, and soaked in the Buenos Aires skyline. Conversations flowed as freely as the watercolor, lines wandered like the evening light—somewhere between focus and fun. Maybe it was the altitude, maybe the drinks, but this was urban sketching at its best.
The symposium wasn’t just about technique. It was about connection—with the city, with fellow artists, and with the stories unfolding before our eyes. Evenings were filled with sketchbook exchanges, impromptu café gatherings, and conversations about art, travel, and the way we see the world.
Looking back, the Urban Sketchers Symposium 2024 was more than just a gathering of artists—it was a reminder of why we sketch. Not just to document, but to understand, to connect, and to celebrate the imperfect beauty of the world around us.