Stephanie Chan

From precision to expression: Stephanie Chan’s journey of color and confidence with Urban Sketch+
Stephanie Chan has been sketching for over three years and came to Ian Fennelly’s courses with a solid background in art. She was initially drawn to Ian’s vibrant use of color and intuitive approach to sketching, which offered a refreshing contrast to her precise and formulaic style.
Before-and-after student sketch – Urban Sketch Course progress photo

Urban Sketch Course Experience

Recommended by a fellow artist, Stephanie joined the Beginners Course and Sketch Barcelona workshop. She admired Ian’s ability to tell stories through his sketches and his intuitive color choices that bring scenes to life. For Stephanie, this was an opportunity to step out of her comfort zone and explore a more loose, expressive style.

"I LOVE Ian's approach to color, his course was recommended to me by another former student of his and after looking through his pieces, I wanted to learn more about how he applied color to his art. I also wanted to be able to incorporate his loose, intuitive style and how he chooses the colors that speak to him in a specific scene to my very rigid, very formulaic style. It has not been easy to merge the two! I've signed up for a LOT of Ian's workshops and I usually actually start with watching the watercolor section, just to see how Ian applies paint"

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

Urban Sketch+ Membership

Stephanie credits the Urban Sketch+ Facebook group as an essential part of her artistic journey. She was drawn to Ian Fennelly’s courses to explore a more intuitive, colorful, and expressive style, contrasting with her traditionally precise approach. A standout feature for Stephanie has been the supportive camaraderie within the Facebook group. She describes it as an uplifting space where fellow artists provide constant encouragement, thoughtful feedback, and motivating words, creating an environment where sharing progress feels both rewarding and inspiring. This community-driven support, coupled with Ian’s real-time sketching demonstrations that make the process approachable and transparent, has helped Stephanie push her boundaries, embrace imperfections, and grow as an artist.

"I have loved the camaraderie and support of the Facebook group - everyone is so encouraging and everyone always has something nice to say about everyone's work. It makes it super motivating to share my work with the group I have also loved that we are watching Ian complete something in real time. Nothing is cut, nothing is sped up - it makes every single scene approachable."

These sketches reflect her journey from precise, black-and-white facades to expressive, colorful urban scenes.
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Steph's early sketches
Before-and-after student sketch – Urban Sketch Course progress photo
Scott's favourite sketch

"I have really, really loved being in this community. It's been hugely helpful for self confidence, to have people be so supportive, and to have admins be so involved and personable! I've been really happy to continue to learn and grow in my work!"

Stephanie’s journey showcases how stepping out of one’s comfort zone can lead to incredible growth and artistic transformation.

Start Sketching for Free

Inspired by Stephanie’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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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
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