One of the most common questions we get is: How does Ian Fennelly choose colors?
With so many options it’s easy to get overwhelmed – especially for beginners. The truth is, there’s no right or wrong way to pick colors because color choice, in the world of urban sketching, comes down to personal preference.
But we know that’s not quite the answer you’re looking for! So, in this article, we’ll share some of Ian’s tips for selecting colors that work best for your sketches.
Color Is About Expression, Not Perfection
Every sketcher sees the world differently, and that’s the beauty of urban sketching. It’s what makes it stand apart from more traditional forms of art.
Some artists like to match the colors with exactly what they see (known as ‘local color’ in sketching lingo). While others – like Ian Fennelly – lean into a more experimental approach, interpreting colors in a way that enhances the mood and energy of a scene (or even how they’re feeling at that time!).
If you’re feeling stuck on color choice, then a good rule of thumb is to select a range that spans the color wheel. That way, you’ll always have a mix of warm and cool tones to create depth and contrast.
A Reliable, No-Fuss Palette
A Reliable, No-Fuss Palette
A great way to simplify your color choices is by using a limited palette. In several of Ian’s online courses, you’ll see him deliberately stick to a limited palette of just 3 or 4 colors, with dramatic results.
Here’s Ian’s tried-and-tested go-to color set that works very effectively for most urban sketches:
- Magnesium Brown – A warm, earthy tone that adds depth.
- Ultramarine Blue – A bold, versatile blue that mixes well for shadows.
- Alizarin Crimson – A deep red that balances warmth and contrast.
With just these three, you can mix an incredible range of colors – from neutral grays to lively, warm hues. And the best part? A limited palette makes your sketches feel more cohesive and harmonious.
The Key to Effective Color Use
Rather than stressing over which colors to choose, focus on the contrast between light and dark – also known as values. Values define the structure and depth of a scene more than the exact colors used.
For example, a shadow can be painted in deep blue, dark purple, or even brown – it doesn’t matter as long as it’s dark enough to contrast with the lighter areas.
Try mixing Prussian Blue and Alizarin Crimson for a rich near-black tone, or Ultramarine Blue and Burnt Umber for a muted shadow effect.
By focusing on values first, your sketch will feel more dynamic and realistic, no matter what hues you choose.
A Simple Challenge to Build Confidence
Next time you sketch, try this:
1. Stick to three colors and see how many variations you can create.
2. Experiment with complementary colors to create visual interest.
3. Pay attention to light and dark areas to create depth, rather than worrying about exact hues.
And if you’re unsure where to start, making a color wheel with your paints is a great way to understand how they interact. It may feel basic, but it’s an invaluable tool that helps you gain confidence in your choices.
But remember – there are no wrong colors, only new discoveries waiting to happen. So, grab your brushes, mix some colors, and let your sketchbook reflect your unique vision of the world.
Ready to learn more?
Learn the art of urban sketching with Ian Fennelly in our Beginner’s course as he guides you through 47 easy-to-follow lessons, with practical exercises, that transform you from complete beginner to skilled urban sketcher!
