Marianne Ochalek

Marianne’s artistic transformation: from inspiration to confidence with Ian Fennelly’s Urban Sketch Courses
Marianne Ochalek joined Ian Fennelly’s courses to refine her artistic skills and achieve her goal of combining travel with art after retirement. With a strong foundation in art, she found Ian’s teaching style, step-by-step process, and supportive spirit captivating, which led her to enroll in multiple courses.
Before-and-after student sketch – Urban Sketch Course progress photo

Urban Sketch Course Experience

Marianne’s journey with Ian Fennelly began with the Beginners Course and expanded to include a variety of specialized courses. Each one deepened her understanding of sketching techniques and broadened her artistic perspective.

Marianne discovered Ian’s courses through YouTube, where his teaching style and finished works left a lasting impression. The clarity of his step-by-step approach and his encouraging demeanor inspired her to take the plunge and invest in her artistic growth.

"After watching YouTube clips of Ian's teaching style and finished works, I was hooked. I liked his step by step process, teaching style and supportive spirit."

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

Urban Sketch+ Membership

As an Urban Sketch+ member, Marianne finds immense value in the platform’s sketching training, 4-Week Sketching Experience, and bonus workshops. These resources have helped her elevate her craft and stay connected to the vibrant Urban Sketching community. Urban Sketch+ has profoundly influenced Marianne’s approach to art. The course has expanded her knowledge of art principles, techniques, and foundations, instilling a sense of confidence and fearlessness to tackle any scene. Her completed works now exude greater expression and professionalism.

" This course has broadened my knowledge of art principles, foundations and methods. I have gained confidence and a sense of fearlessness to tackle any scene. My completed works look more expressive and professional. In addition, I have sold several sketches that I have completed based on using Ian's techniques."

These sketches highlight Marianne’s evolution as an artist, from her early works to the polished and expressive pieces she creates today.
Marianne's first sketch
Before-and-after student sketch – Urban Sketch Course progress photo
Marianne's favourite sketch

"The Urban Sketch Course community is an amazing team of talented individuals focused on one collective goal---supporting each artist on their individual journey of self-expression. Thank you for sharing your gifts with us."

Marianne’s story illustrates the transformative power of art in retirement, demonstrating how creativity and community can turn dreams into reality. She hopes her journey inspires others to embrace their artistic passions and pursue self-expression with confidence.

Start Sketching for Free

Inspired by Marianne’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!

Start your success story

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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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