The Sketching Weekend Ritual
When the weekend rolls around, many of us might lace up hiking boots or call friends for brunch. But for one passionate group in the Chinese mainland, Saturday and Sunday look different: they head out with sketchbooks to capture the ever-changing cityscapes of Beijing. Over the past ten years, this collective of urban sketchers has built a weekend ritual rooted in creativity, community and discovery.
From Streets to Skylines
Armed with pencils, ink and watercolours, these artists explore Beijing's historic hutongs, soaring skyscrapers and hidden corners. Each session starts before sunrise – as the city awakens, sketchers spread blankets on the pavement, set up folding stools and begin drawing. By afternoon, their sketchbooks are filled with architectural details, bustling markets and quiet temple courtyards.
Keeping Tradition Alive
CGTN reporter Yang Yan recently joined the group to learn what fuels this decade-long commitment. Their secret? A shared passion for observation and a supportive community. Seasoned sketchers mentor newcomers, offering tips on perspective and colour. In return, fresh faces inject new energy, selecting off-beat spots and experimenting with digital brushes on tablets.
A Global Inspiration
While the core focus remains Beijing, the group's story resonates worldwide. From digital nomads to young architects, urban sketching has become a movement – one that bridges cultures and redefines how we experience cities. As travel resumes, these lines on paper invite us to slow down, look closely and connect with the world around us.
Join the Next Sketchout
Whether you're an aspiring artist or simply curious, the weekend sketch meetups are open to all. No prior experience is needed – just a sketchpad, pen and a spirit of adventure. Next time you're in Beijing, consider swapping your camera for a pencil and discover the art of seeing your city in a new light.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
