Sketching is often the quiet heart of an artist’s practice: raw, unfiltered, and deeply personal. It’s where ideas are born, mistakes are welcome, and creativity flows freely. Yet for many aspiring artists, sketching can feel intimidating or even frustrating. At the Online College of Art and Design, we believe that learning to love the sketching process is one of the most powerful steps you can take in developing your skills and confidence as an artist.
Whether you’re just starting out or rediscovering your artistic passion, our online art courses are designed to help you grow – not just technically, but creatively and emotionally too. That starts with embracing your sketchbook as a space to explore, play, and learn.
Why Sketching Matters
Sketching is more than a warm-up or a stepping stone to a final piece; it’s a valuable part of the artistic journey in its own right. It teaches observation, patience, and experimentation. It allows you to develop your own visual language and strengthen your connection to the subjects you’re passionate about.
Many successful artists and designers keep a daily sketching habit, not because every page has to be perfect, but because it sharpens their eye, unlocks new ideas, and deepens their understanding of form, line, and composition.
Falling in Love with Sketching: How to Shift Your Mindset
- Let Go of Perfection
One of the biggest barriers to enjoying sketching is the fear of getting it wrong. But sketchbooks are meant to be messy! Embrace your scribbles, smudges, and half-finished ideas, they’re all part of the process. The more you let go of perfection, the more freedom you’ll find in your creativity. - Make Time, Not Excuses
You don’t need hours each day to become a better artist. Just a few minutes of sketching daily can make a big difference over time. Whether it’s a coffee cup, your pet, or something from imagination, sketching regularly builds confidence and momentum. - Sketch What You Love
If you’re passionate about fashion, draw clothes. If you love nature, sketch trees, animals, and leaves. Your enthusiasm will shine through and make the process more enjoyable. - Try Different Materials
Don’t be afraid to mix things up. Pencil, charcoal, ink, or even digital sketching apps can all spark new inspiration. At OCAD, our students are encouraged to explore different mediums until they find what suits their style. - Use Your Sketchbook as a Visual Diary
Treat your sketchbook as a place to capture your thoughts and moods. Over time, it becomes a reflection of your creative journey – a space that’s entirely yours.
Sketching with Confidence at OCAD
At the Online College of Art and Design, we help students of all levels fall in love with the creative process. Whether you’re aiming to build a university portfolio, switch careers, or simply reconnect with your creativity, our fully online, flexible art courses are here to guide you.
Our experienced tutors offer personalised feedback and encouragement, helping you gain not just technical skills, but the confidence to express your artistic voice. And because our courses are completely online, you can study at your own pace, on your own terms.
Ready to start your creative journey?
Join our community of passionate learners and discover how sketching, and art as a whole, can transform your life.