Someone asked me "how to start a sketchbook for drawing and watercolours?"
After I got over the shock of them thinking I would know
the answer - I'm very recently returned to
art. The long story is they are looking to use
art for emotional wellbeing and that's a big part of what I'm doing with my art. It's such a big help in my physical and emotional recovery that I think it's worth sharing my reply (or an edited version of it) here.
Coming back to art after nearly 30 years away, the one thing I noticed most is the definitions have changed. When I learned art, a sketchbook was something you would never show anyone else. It was a place for playing, experimenting with ideas, trying different compositions, materials, styles, and brushes... it was as messy as the messiest part of an artist's mind. Maybe worse, because of all the smudges and spilt
coffee.
A sketchbook was the safe space between idea and art.
Now the word sketchbook seems to refer to a book of finished art. Every page a picture worth framing but hidden inside the book. Show it off to the world on a youtube sketchbook tour.
For me, I like both styles. So I got two
books. One is a hot mess (watercolour paper is surprisingly good at soaking up coffee) and will never be opened in the company of another human being. The other book is for painting in permies. Every page is NOT a picture worth framing, but if someone were to glance over my shoulder, I wouldn't feel ashamed.
Since I'm painting for my health, I NEED the safety of the old style of sketchbook so I can try skills without fear of external judgement. I need a place to experiment with new techniques knowing that I'll probably get them wrong the first few times.
And I like the joy of having a book I'm not ashamed of sharing.
So that's my suggestion. A two book system. I keep my books small so I can carry one or both in my bag
I'm a big fan of ink and wash so I carry a fineliner or a fude fountain pen and sketch with ink first, then fill in the details with colour. For that reason, I chose watercolour paper for my first few books, but multimedia paper might be a better choice so I want to try that next.
But it doesn't matter the tools, what matters is that we take the time to make art that gives us joy. If it's not giving you joy, try a different material or method.
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