​This workshop is a part of USk Vancouver Sketch Weekend 2026.

​Join Vancouver-based artist and instructor Becky Cao for a relaxing 3-hour urban sketching workshop exploring how to create a collage-style sketchbook page spread inspired by moments at Granville Island.

​This workshop will take place around the Net Loft market building, featuring the charming Nooroongji Books bookstore and nearby scenes. Participants will learn how to combine small observational sketches into a cohesive page that tells the story of a place.

​We will begin by sketching a simple close-up subject — a cup of coffee from Mon Ami Coffee Co. — focusing on confident line work and simplifying shapes. Becky will then guide participants through sketching the exterior of Nooroongji bookstore, exploring how to capture architectural character without becoming overwhelmed by detail. If the opportunity arises, we may also include quick gesture sketches of a street busker to bring a sense of life and movement into the page.

​Participants will follow step-by-step demonstrations to complete two to three sketches using pen and watercolor. Becky will share her approach to page composition, helping participants arrange multiple sketches into a balanced and visually engaging sketchbook layout.

​Techniques covered include:

​• creating a collage-style sketchbook page from multiple scenes/subjects

​• simplifying storefronts and architectural details into manageable shapes

​• sketching everyday subjects such as coffee cups and people 

​• using expressive pen lines with varied pressure

​• applying loose watercolor washes to suggest light and atmosphere

​• capturing the feeling of a place through observation rather than perfection

​This workshop is suitable for beginners as well as experienced sketchers who would like to explore a more personal and story-driven approach to urban sketching.

​Becky has been teaching online sketching classes internationally for the past five years, helping students develop confidence capturing their daily lives in sketchbooks. Her teaching style emphasizes slowing down, observing carefully, and finding meaning in ordinary moments.

​Come spend a relaxing morning/ afternoon sketching together, discovering how small scenes — a quiet bookstore, a warm cup of coffee, a busker — can come together to tell the story of Granville Island.

​General Timeline (3 hours)

​0:00 – 0:10 | Introduction

​Welcome and brief introduction to the workshop approach, materials, and the idea of creating a collage-style sketchbook page inspired by everyday moments at Granville Island.

​0:10 – 0:40 | Demonstration & Guided Sketch 1 – Coffee & Snack (30 min)

​Participants will follow along step-by-step as Becky demonstrates how to sketch a simple close-up subject — a cup of coffee and small snack from Mon Ami Café. Focus will be placed on simplifying shapes, confident line work, and using watercolor washes to suggest form and light. This small subject helps participants warm up and build confidence.

​0:40 – 2:20 | Demonstration & Guided Sketch 2 – Nooroongji Bookstore (1 hr 40 min)

​Participants will follow along as Becky demonstrates how to sketch the exterior of Nooroongji Bookstore in the Net Loft building. Emphasis will be placed on simplifying architectural details, planning composition, and maintaining expressive line quality while capturing the character of the storefront. Becky will demonstrate how to layer watercolor to create depth and atmosphere while keeping the sketch fresh and lively.

​2:20 – 2:55 | Demonstration & Guided Sketch 3 – Busker or Market Details (35 min)

​For the final sketch, participants may capture a busker, small objects, or interesting details found around the market. This portion encourages a relaxed and playful approach, helping participants learn how small sketches can add storytelling elements to a collage-style sketchbook page.

​2:55 – 3:10 | Sharing & Wrap-up (10–15 min)

​Participants will gather in a circle to share their sketches. Becky will offer encouragement and suggestions for continuing an urban sketching practice, helping participants feel confident capturing everyday moments in their sketchbooks.