The power of sketching, an art form that has captivated artists and enthusiasts alike, is an intriguing topic that deserves a deeper dive. In this article, we'll explore the unique initiative, #OneWeek100People, and the fascinating impact it has on participants and their perception of the world.
The Birth of a Global Challenge
OneWeek100People, an annual event now in its tenth year, was born out of a simple desire to stay connected between two friends, Liz Steel and Marc Taro Holmes. What started as a personal challenge to sketch 20 people a day for a week quickly evolved into a global phenomenon within the Urban Sketchers community. The challenge is an intriguing concept, pushing artists to sketch 100 people in just seven days. But what makes this challenge so appealing and how does it impact the artists' lives?
The Magic of Quantity Over Quality
For Holmes, the key to improvement lies in quantity. By setting an ambitious goal of 100 sketches, artists are encouraged to draw without self-criticism. It's a unique approach that flips the traditional idea of perfection on its head. As Steel puts it, it's about practice, not perfection. This mindset shift is a powerful tool, allowing artists to focus on the process rather than the end result.
A Different Way of Seeing
Sketching people is more than just an artistic endeavor; it's a way to engage with the world in a deeper, more meaningful way. As Nadel, a participant, explains, it's about recalibrating your brain to notice the people and interactions that often go unnoticed. Sketching forces you to slow down, to really look at your surroundings. It's an active, creative process, a stark contrast to passively consuming media.
The Transformative Power of Sketching
For Steel, sketching creates a tactile relationship with the environment. When sketching on location, she finds herself immersed in the world around her, noticing details she might have otherwise missed. It's a powerful tool for memory, allowing her to vividly relive moments captured in her sketchbook. Holmes agrees, seeing drawing as a way to engage with the world, a motivation to live a good life.
Accessibility and Flow
Despite the ambitious goal, Holmes and Steel emphasize the accessibility of the challenge. Success is defined by the act of trying, and the challenge is designed to be inclusive, with no expensive tools required. The key is to simplify and find your own rhythm. As Steel advises, work small, simplify your sketch, and use limited materials. The process can be addictive, and once you get into the flow, it's hard to stop.
A New Perspective
The impact of this challenge goes beyond the sketches themselves. Nadel speaks of the increased empathy and gratitude she feels towards the 'ordinary'. It's a powerful reminder of the beauty in everyday life and the importance of slowing down to truly see and appreciate it. The challenge encourages us to put down our phones and engage with the world happening right in front of us.
