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Pam Rhodes

Mixing mediums to make her way to galleries!

Pam Rhodes had always enjoyed painting in oils, but her artistic journey took an exciting turn when she discovered Ian Fennelly’s Urban Sketch courses online. Intrigued by Ian’s distinctive loose style and watercolor techniques, she decided to try the Beginners Course—and was immediately hooked. Since then, Pam has immersed herself in multiple courses, including: Beginners Course, Sketch London, Sketch Wales, Rural Sketch Course, High Street Course and Wild West Course.

Urban Sketch Course Experience

Pam found immense joy in the fluidity of watercolor sketching, particularly in the way colors blend together naturally. A breakthrough moment came when she discovered a sketching technique for trees that she truly enjoys, an aspect of her work that had previously been challenging. Ian’s unique teaching style and structured guidance have been instrumental in shaping her evolving skills.

"I am now hooked on splashing the paint on with lots of water and, in Ian’s words, letting the colours play together. I have also, at last, found a way of sketching trees that I enjoy. Ian’s approach is a joy to do."

Urban Sketch+ Membership

Since joining Urban Sketch+, Pam’s approach to art has completely transformed. Ian’s relaxed and encouraging teaching style provided the exact motivation she needed to advance her skills. Through Urban Sketching, she has embraced a more spontaneous, expressive way of creating art—turning every sketch into an enjoyable and fulfilling experience.

"Urban Sketch+ has enabled me to become part of an amazing group of sketchers where we can share ideas and support each other. I can proceed at my own pace, dip into whatever I feel I need to try, and to loosen up my sketching to make it whatever I want it to be. Ian’s teaching style is relaxed and encouraging, and exactly what I needed to move my skills forward. It has changed my approach to art completely."

Since joining Ian’s courses, Pam has gained the confidence to showcase and even sell her artwork. Pam has generously shared sketches from the beginning of her journey alongside her more recent work, highlighting her incredible progress over time.

Pam's first sketch
Pam's favourite sketch

"More recently I have sold a couple of sketches (one to a pub, they have it hanging on the wall in the bar), and just now have a selection of my sketches displayed in Taplow Court Buddhist centre in Berkshire. I’m growing in confidence over time and loving pushing myself to try more complex scenes."

Pam’s journey is a testament to the power of creativity, community, and perseverance in unlocking new possibilities. She hopes her experience inspires others to pick up a pen, sketch their surroundings, and find joy in the artistic process.

Start Sketching for Free

Inspired by Pam’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

In our Free Course!

About Urban Sketch Course

Our mission is to connect you with the world through the art of urban sketching

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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