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Urban Sketching Chicago Capture Chicago with Watercolors

Since 2018 my Urban Sketching Chicago AirBnb experience has been enjoyed by first time sketchers and experienced artists alike. All supplies are included so there’s nothing you have to bring. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, sketching is a great way to experience this city and relax.

About this experience

Urban sketching means sketching on location, typically outside*. You’ll explore Chicago’s urban landscape, view the city with a local watercolor artist, create a lasting memory, all-the-while learning valuable sketching tips. 

When is this experience? Check my calendar or request a date.

How long is the experience? 2 hours

Where we meet: 313 W Wolf Point Plaza

What’s included?
A sketch kit complete with a journal, watercolors, brush, waterproof pen, and pencil.

* As long as weather permits, we will be outside.

Who are my guests?

Solo traveler
First date
Couples
Friends
Small groups
Team building
Creatives
City walkers
Looking to unwind
Architecture lovers
Locals
Day trippers

“Monika is very patient and helped explain how to sketch and paint with water colors. I had never done it before and it was a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.”

– David

A look through the years

Since starting my experience in 2018, I’ve met people from around the world as well as Chicagoans looking to immerse themselves in the urban landscape.

The locations & views

Chicago is beautiful year-round but it is breath taking in the summertime as we emerge from hybernation. Our time will be spent around the Chicago river as long as weather permits. When it’s rainy we sketch indoors at places like the Chicago Cultural Center. Whatever the location, my guests feel absorbed in the community.

What my guests have said:

Get directions

map of chicago

Click the pin on the map to view location details and get directions. I will always get in-touch with you before the experience starts and please let me know if you have any questions.

Where we’ll meet

We’ll meet right off the Chicago river, next to The Mart by the two new skyscrapers; Wolf Point East and the Salesforce Tower. The Blue Bottle is located just off the Franklin-Orleans Street Bridge and we’ll meet there.

I have been looking forward to the completion of these buildings to share and sketch these views. Join me! Navigate to 313 W Wolf Point Plaza and we’ll go from there! See the map.

Questions I get asked

taking photo of sketch
Take a photo of your sketch and share it #sketchchicago | @monikaarturi

About the global urban sketchers

We are a global community who sketch where we live and travel. We try to stay true to our scene and share our sketches with others online. Visit the official Urban Sketchers website for more information about the annual symposium and other events, local to you. These are some photos from the Chicago get togethers throughout the years.