Gretchen Anderson

Capturing the world with vibrant strokes and a playful spirit
Gretchen Anderson is an advanced urban sketcher based in Oakland, CA, with more than three years of experience. Her artistic journey predates her time in urban sketching, and her skill set continues to evolve thanks to a blend of formal training and informal exploration.
Before-and-after student sketch – Urban Sketch Course progress photo

Urban Sketch Course Experience

Gretchen was drawn to Ian’s approach, which is both fun and practical. After starting his courses, she noticed a noticeable evolution in her work—becoming more confident, looser, and more finished. Friends and fellow sketchers also commented on the transformation in her style.

"Ian brings joy and exploration energy to learning. While he has specific techniques he imparts, his enthusiasm for playing around comes through and is infectious. Several people noticed the shift in what I was making once I started with him. It’s now been 4 years, and I’ve loved all of it."

Before-and-after student sketch – Urban Sketch Course progress photo

Urban Sketch+ Membership

Urban Sketch+ has encouraged Gretchen to become more intentional with her sketching. Instead of randomly selecting subjects, she now dedicates time to practice specific techniques and refine her own style, adding more purpose to her creative process.

While Gretchen finds the monthly training sessions helpful, she particularly enjoys the live events held monthly or bi-monthly. These interactive sessions offer a sense of community and a space for lively engagement.

These sketches highlight Gretchen’s remarkable progression, from her early Urban Sketches to more refined pieces that showcase her growing skill and artistic evolution.
Gretchen's first sketch
Before-and-after student sketch – Urban Sketch Course progress photo
Gretchen's favourite sketch
Gretchen’s story highlights the transformative impact of dedicated practice, community engagement, and a playful approach to learning. Her journey serves as an inspiration to fellow sketchers to embrace creativity and explore their artistic potential.

Start Sketching for Free

Inspired by Gretchen’s story? Join a FREE urban sketching course with renowned artist Ian Fennelly! Gain skills and confidence through easy-to-follow lessons, hands-on exercises, and step-by-step guidance. Capture your surroundings with style and personality—don’t miss this rare opportunity to learn from one of the world’s top urban sketchers, completely free!

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Urban Sketch Course promotional image – online sketching course

About Urban Sketch Course

Our mission is to connect you with the world through the art of urban sketching
Ian Circle 2 – Urban Sketch Course

About the Artist

Ian Fennelly focuses on capturing urban spaces and environments by drawing the places where people have been without actually including them.

His process involves layering watercolors, brush pens, and liners to build depth, texture, and detail, allowing them to fully immerse in the scene while adapting to changes in their surroundings.

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Before-and-after student sketch – Urban Sketch Course progress photo
Sketching made simple: Stuart's first steps with Ian Fennelly's Beginners Course
Before-and-after student sketch – Urban Sketch Course progress photo
Retired first time sketcher finds joy in sketching for family
Photo from Urban Sketch Course student or community member
Discovering joy through sketching: Gillian's journey with Urban Sketch Courses
Before-and-after student sketch – Urban Sketch Course progress photo
A vibrant journey of urban sketching, creativity, and growth