Marek Badzynski is an architect and urban sketcher based in Toronto, Canada. Having always enjoyed drawing, he went on to study architecture at Warsaw University, where he developed his freehand drawing skills and understanding of perspective.
Today, Marek combines ink and watercolour to create lively urban sketches and architectural paintings, capturing the character of places and the world around him.
In this interview, Marek talks about his journey into urban sketching, the challenges of drawing outdoors, and why Bockingford® has become his paper of choice for sketching on the go.
Can you tell us about your journey as an artist? How did you first get into drawing, and when did urban sketching become an important part of your practice?
We all start drawing and painting in kindergarten, but many of us give it up during our school years, often because it stops being considered “cool.” Only the stubborn ones keep going - and I was definitely one of them! Drawing made me happy, and before long, it became a way to communicate ideas with others, especially in architecture.
I started drawing a lot at university, and I had a practical reason for doing so: whenever I travelled to Italy, I would sketch the lively streets and squares of Tuscan and Umbrian towns. Tourists passing by would often buy my sketches as souvenirs. For a university student, that meant money for lunch or dinner! So, I can honestly say I experienced the whole art-for-food concept firsthand.
Urban sketching often involves working quickly, with changing light, moving people and unpredictable weather. How do you deal with these challenges, and how much do you allow them to influence the finished drawing?
Ah, those pesky people - they ALWAYS move! I draw my architectural scenes directly in ink, starting from the top of the page, and I keep an eye for any human passing by; to give the scene a sense of scale all I need to add is a silhouette, and placement of the head and torso is what matters most - I draw that first. If they move away too quick, then I will use the next passing person to borrow other parts... yes, my sketches are full of Frankenstein people!
I try to keep a sketch to about 45 minutes so light does not change much during same session - but what if a big truck just parked in front of you? Oh well, either pretend it’s not there, or draw that in…whatever you want. It’s your sketch.
I try to keep a sketch to about 45 minutes so light does not change much during same session - but what if a big truck just parked in front of you? Oh well, either pretend it’s not there, or draw that in…whatever you want. It’s your sketch.
Urban sketching means working in all kinds of unpredictable conditions. One day, you might be perched on a tiny stool in heavy traffic next to a dumpster; another, you might be relaxing on a comfy sofa in the golden sunshine. Sadly, the first scenario is far more likely!
When we sketch outdoors, we have to contend with wind, dust, humidity, and the occasional pigeon dropping. That’s why I need a paper that can withstand a bit of abuse. Sooner or later, it will get stretched, scratched, splashed, or dropped on the ground - paint side down, of course!
Drying time matters too: I want to be able to close my sketchbook and head home, or off to lunch, without worrying about a sheet of wet paper sticking to the opposite page.
Have you ever tried balancing a damp sheet of paper and a palette full of wet paint while riding a bicycle? I learned it’s not a good idea when I took a tumble in the street. To my surprise, my semi-wet quarter sheet of Bockingford paper survived the fall remarkably well, all minor scuffs were salvageable. Rough and tough is exactly what I need!
When did you first start using Bockingford® paper, and what made you choose it for your urban sketching?
When did you first start using Bockingford® paper, and what made you choose it for your urban sketching?
Several years ago a local theatre gave away sheets of watercolour paper, unknown type; I went to pick them up only to find out the sheets are absolutely humongous size - they barely rolled to fit in my van. Attached was a barcode: Bockingford! Hmm.. never heard of it! But paper felt good, cold pressed texture looked pristine and sheets were substantially thick. Back at home, I trimmed out my first piece and gave it go: Wow...
I since cut out some 200 sheets of custom sized Bockingford, and also used it in standard blocks and pads. An awesome paper for all watercolour based techniques, especially good for quick and dirty sketching on the go.
Urban sketching often brings people together through group meet-ups and sketching events. What do you enjoy about sketching alongside others?
Sketching meetups are like a family reunion: we all look forward to the next one. Urban Sketchers gather to draw and paint together, exchange opinions on art supplies, and learn from each other. All of that is in a non-competitive environment, so everyone, regardless of ability, can enjoy their own creating process.
What advice would you give someone who wants to start urban sketching?
Get out there and draw; Urban Sketching is unpredictable so keep expectations low and you will succeed, stress-free, in creating a memory that captures YOUR happiest moments.
The actual brand of sketch gear does not matter but, if you in the mood to treat yourself, consider this: using quality watercolour paper will have the biggest impact on your art, and likely will also make you happier.
Perhaps one day you’ll trade YOUR art for lunch or dinner…
Cheers,
Marek
Links
To see more of Marek’s work and find out about his upcoming workshops, visit:
To learn more about the range of Bockingford® paper visit our website.
No comments:
Post a Comment