Why Ian Fennelly Rarely Paints the Sky

Skip the Sky

If you’ve ever admired Ian Fennelly’s urban sketches, you might have noticed something unusual — he rarely paints the sky.

At first, this might seem like an omission or an oversight, but it’s actually a deliberate artistic choice that enhances his work. And once you understand why, you may find yourself rethinking how you approach your own sketches.

The Sky is Changing, Buildings Hold Time

A sketch is more than just a frozen snapshot — it’s a record of time spent in a place. Ian focuses on buildings, streets, and objects that remain constant rather than transient elements like the sky.

Clouds shift, the color of the sky changes, and the light moves throughout the day. But the structures beneath it — the weathered bricks, the slanted rooftops, the intricate details of a historic facade — these hold the true character of a place.

Your Blank Paper Becomes the Sky

Instead of filling in the sky, Ian lets the untouched space at the top of his sketch serve as the sky itself. This contrast between the structured elements below and the open space above creates balance and depth in the composition.

The simplicity of an unpainted sky also helps direct the viewer’s attention to the richness of detail in the foreground — the textures of old walls, the layers of architectural history, and the small, everyday objects that make a scene feel alive.

The Beauty of "Clutter"

Ian often speaks about his love for what he calls the “clutter” of a street scene. This includes the charming imperfections of urban spaces — the uneven cobblestones, the tangled power lines, the quirky angles of shopfronts and windows. By focusing on these grounded elements, his sketches tell a deeper story about the places he visits. The sky, by comparison, is simply empty space that comes and goes.

When to Add a Hint of Sky

Of course, there are moments when a touch of sky can enhance a sketch. Ian sometimes suggests a wash of cerulean or manganese blue behind bright white buildings, such as churches, to create contrast and depth. This subtle addition makes the building pop forward without overwhelming the composition.

How This Can Transform Your Own Sketching

If you’re used to filling in the sky, it can feel strange to leave it blank. The temptation to complete the scene might be strong—after all, we’re so accustomed to seeing the sky as part of our view.

But here’s a challenge for you: the next time you sketch, hold off on painting the sky. Instead, shift your focus to what truly brings the scene to life—the textures of a doorway, the greenery spilling from a window, the interplay of shadows on a wall.

Urban sketching isn’t about following rigid rules; it’s about making intentional choices that enhance your art. You might be surprised at how much clarity and balance an unpainted sky can bring to your composition, naturally drawing the viewer’s eye to the details that matter most.

So, next time you’re out with your sketchbook, try skipping the sky — and see how it changes the way you see the world.

Ready to learn more?

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