Stuart Mono

Sketching made simple: Stuart’s first steps with Ian Fennelly’s Beginners Course
Stuart Mono, a beginner urban sketcher with less than a year of experience, began his sketching journey inspired by Ian Fennelly’s vibrant and loose style. Though he already had some art experience, he was drawn to the joyful, approachable nature of Ian’s work and decided to explore Urban Sketching through the Beginners Course.
Before-and-after student sketch – Urban Sketch Course progress photo

Urban Sketch Course Experience

Stuart’s admiration for Ian’s unique style, combined with the positive and relaxed approach, motivated him to take the plunge into Urban Sketching. The “looseness and happy vibe” of Ian’s sketches resonated with him and sparked a desire to learn more. Stuart appreciated hearing Ian’s thought process as he determined viewpoints or sketched intricate details. This approach not only lowered the anxiety of starting but also made Urban Sketching feel accessible to everyone. Stuart particularly enjoyed how the Beginners Course was organized and progressive, with four distinct projects that added depth and variety to the learning experience.

"I like hearing Ian's thinking whether it's when he's determining a visual point of view or sketching various details. He lowers the anxiety level and makes it seem that anyone can do this. The stories behind the sketches give them more meaning. I especially like how the beginners course included four different projects and that it was so well organized and progressive."

Before-and-after student sketch – Urban Sketch Course progress photo
Completing all the sketches in the Beginner’s Course and even creating some on his own were meaningful milestones for Stuart, marking the start of his journey in Urban Sketching.
Stuart's first sketch

"I have loved getting to know and sketch in person with Ian at the three live workshop events I have participated in with him. He is a joy to be around and probably the most positive, encouraging and genuine person I know. Just a super delightful guy and super talented artist."

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

Start Sketching for Free

Inspired by Stuart’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
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How urban sketching transformed Valério's artistic journey
Before-and-after student sketch – Urban Sketch Course progress photo
Mixing mediums to make her way to galleries!
Watercolor painting of a zebra grazing in an open savanna landscape with distant hills, by student (oplus submission).
Asmita joined as a beginner and, in under a year, grew so much that people started buying her work and commissioning sketches of their homes!