If you enjoy sketching, love the raw beauty of capturing life as it is, or seek a fresh way to view your surroundings, Urban Sketchers Goa is the right community for you.
This artistic group, officially recognised on November 1, 2018, offers a space for everyone — from seasoned artists to curious onlookers — to appreciate sketching as a means of capturing real-life moments.
HOW IT ALL BEGAN
Urban Sketchers Goa, a local chapter of the global Urban Sketchers movement, was established in 2017 by Darpana Athale and Mukund Athale.
Their vision, later formalised with the support of fellow artist, Yash C, creating a platform for community-driven art.
Currently, the Urban Sketchers Goa team includes Leandra Fernandes and Andrea Fernandes, both of who bring their unique creative talents to the group.
Darpana explains, “There is no hierarchy or specific work assigned to one person.
"Within this, we also play up our strengths as much as possible —Leandra is great at social media and comes up with innovative ways to connect online, while Andrea is fabulous in terms of structuring, planning, and finance,” she continues.
Darpana adds that since she is one of the Indian coordinators, she has a strong network with Urban Sketchers, both in India and abroad, and is also responsible for the group’s vision, ensuring they move in the right direction.
The Goa chapter arose from a shared passion for documenting their surroundings, embracing a fresh perspective that fosters connection through art and historical documentation.
The organisation welcomes everyone — no matter what their age, skill level or background.
GROWING COMMUNITY
Urban Sketchers Goa isn’t a private or exclusive group. The organisation welcomes everyone — no matter what their age, skill level or background.
Members, and that includes children as young as five to people over 80, come from all walks of life — artists, engineers, homemakers and more.
The group has over 2,000 followers on Instagram, 300+ on Facebook, and a core network of about 100 active members on WhatsApp.
For those wanting to join, there are no registration requirements; you simply show up at their gatherings.
CAPTURING GOA AND BEYOND
While the group primarily focuses on sketching Goa’s picturesque locales, members also sketch during travels, documenting experiences beyond the State.
Subjects vary widely, and include people, animals, bustling markets, serene landscapes, historical structures and modern urban scenes.
WHERE TO SEE, BUY THE SKETCHES
For those looking to own a piece of Goa’s vibrant art scene, sketches by the group are available for purchase on their social media pages. Commissioned work is also available and can be requested through their platforms.
Urban Sketchers Goa has even proposed showcasing their art as signboards for heritage sites, bringing a unique touch to Goa’s cultural landscape.
WORKSHOPS & LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
For anyone interested in learning, Urban Sketchers Goa conducts sketchwalks and workshops, offering newcomers the chance to learn sketching in an informal setting.
Announcements for upcoming workshops are posted on their Instagram and Facebook pages, so keep an eye out for updates.
Urban Sketching offers a unique way to connect with one’s surroundings, develop artistic skills, and appreciate urban life from a different perspective.
Whether you’re a local, a tourist or just a curious artist, Urban Sketchers Goa is a welcoming community that captures and celebrates the spirit of Goa through art.
DETAILS
WHAT: Urban Sketchers Goa
INSTAGRAM: @Urbansketchersgoa
FACEBOOK: @Urbansketchersgoa