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Sketch Club - Becoming A Member

Welcome to my wonderful world of sketching.

 

I have been teaching online since 2020 and it’s time for a change! 

Urban sketching changed my life. If you know me, then you’ll be familiar with my story – or maybe not, I haven’t blabbed on about it for ages. So I guess I was a frustrated artist – the usual story of a talented kid convinced that fame and fortune lay ahead. But Life didn’t get that memo. I was starting to feel a bit hopeless by the time I was in my mid-forties and I still hadn’t really achieved anything but a tall pile of rejection slips that were becoming rejection emails (we’re going back a bit). Worse, much worse, was the fact that I hadn’t cracked my mojo – that magical thing that is unique to everyone. This was killing me. 

Discovering sketching changed everything. The day I discovered sketching, reading Danny Gregory’s Everyday Matters by a pool in Mauritius, I knew my life was about to change. It changed more than I could ever have predicted in my wildest dreams.

Roll on fourteen years and I have published three bestsellers, have a 5-star rated podcast, have taught all over Europe, supported my family on my income from art alone, taught about 800 classes online, designed and produced a sketching bag, sketched for the Spanish, Portuguese and French tourist bodies…and found my mojo in the process. (If this isn’t the place to list my achievements I don’t know what is.)

And I have spent countless thousands of hours capturing our beautiful world in ink and watercolour, everywhere from the wild seashore to a packed train…it has been so much fun.

Better still, I found inner peace and my head stopped driving me crazy. That’s a whole other story that I will be glad to share, well, anywhere you like, really. You don’t find the cure for crazy (or maybe “a” cure for crazy) and keep it to yourself. 

But as I said, it’s time for a change. I have recently started writing and producing a comic that goes out once every two months. It is now MY time to further my artistic career, not just help others with theirs. 

So from September 1st I will be teaching once a month. Live online on the second Monday of each month at 5.00pm GMT+1. Recorded and sent afterwards, all for just €12.50 per month. Join us! Become a member of my Sketch Club today!

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New Sketch Pockets!

As urban sketchers we love to grab our sketching opportunity the minute we see it. My beautiful SketchPocket bag for sketchers allows you to sketch on your feet, anywhere, without needing a surface to rest your kit. But as well as looking beautiful and being super-practical, your SketchPocket always coordinates with what you’re wearing, because it’s available in black or white. And because it’s made of cactus leather it’s good for the planet too.

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SP-Black-front
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Filling

To celebrate the workshop I will teach at USk Poznan this August, I am offering a free gift of an A6 200g Watercolour Sketchbook by Hahnemühle with the next 50 SketchPockets ordered (or while stocks last), whether you choose filled or unfilled. This will be either landscape or portrait but if you’re quick you can choose the format you prefer. And as if this weren’t enough, the next 20 orders will ALSO get a gift of a half-pan of Mineral Violet by Roman Szmal.

Pre-Order Sketch Pockets

Testimonials

This is an absolute dream come true sketch. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I had the capability to draw such a complex scene. Thank you Róisin, your teaching skills are next to none, and I for one, will always be grateful to learn from such a great mentor as you. I had to press the pause button many times, but I made it.
Loretta
LorettaMember
Roisin’s classes are simply amazing, we learn so much from her. She’s an incredible teacher and mentor. I’m always looking forward to her courses and videos. Les cours de Roisin sont incroyables. Nous apprenons tellement, car elle est une prof et une mentore sans pareille. J’ai toujours hâte de voir et de participer à ses cours et ses vidéos.
Christine, CanadaMember
Roisin changed my outlook on art. I started learning how to use watercolor during the pandemic and wasn't pleased with what I was doing. I took one class from her and was amazed. I am now proud to say that I am an urban sketcher thanks to Roisin. I don't go anywhere without a sketchbook and fude pen.
Debra, USAMember
Roisin is an exceptional teacher. She is able to not only demonstrate how to make beautiful art; but also to make her students confident in their ability to be artists. She teaches her students how to see, create and fly.
Hillary, USAMember
I have studied with Róisín Cure online for nearly two years and attended one in-person workshop. I have learned and grown so much through her lessons. She has a wonderful gift of teaching and helping one to feel successful. She is also a marvelous storyteller and makes classes so enjoyable and fun. I cannot recommend her classes enough!
Cathy T, USAMember
Before I found Róisín I was always disappointed in my art and very nearly gave up. My drawings lacked character and when I applied paint they just got worse; boring and flat. Róisín is an encyclopedia of experience and knowledge, she can draw and paint absolutely everything. When teaching she guides you in detail through her thought process and shows you step by step not only how but why and of course what with. I found her tips on indicating light and tones particularly valuable. Then there's skies and reflections, people and buildings - so many techniques. She can make the most ugly of scenes such as a telegraph pole full of wires look truly beautiful and straight away after trying my first tutorial from her website I was pleased at last with my work and now feel confident out there doing my own plein air work.
Cathy F, UKMember
I first became aware of Róisín from her urban sketching website and then from her engaging books, about Galway and Dublin (later her Urban Sketching Handbooks joined the impressive mix). At the time I was trying to improve my own sketching in that style and looked at Róisín’s work as the pinnacle of what I was aiming at, with no expectation of reaching that level. But I soon found that Róisín was not just a successful author, but one of the most warm, capable and enthusiastic teachers that I could hope to meet on line. As a result, my technique, ability and confidence for “out and about” sketching took a significant leap upwards and I feel that I have also gained a sketching friend. When looking for urban sketching teachers, Róisín is the “real deal”, adhering to the urban sketching ideals and sharing all that she knows in her wonderfully friendly and effective manner. Five star teaching, plus plus!
Nick, UKMember
Because of Roisin I have been introduced to the wonderful world of urban sketching. With her meticulous, clear and creative instructions I have become more confident in venturing out into “the wild” to explore , draw and paint what is around me.
Mersina, AustraliaMember
I became less precious about sketching and in this in turn dramatically improved my drawing and watercolour skills.
Margaret, IrelandMember
Your teaching skills have provided me, someone who has never moved beyond stick figures, with the ability to sketch with confidence and without fear of failure. Thank you with my whole heart! You guided a rudderless seventy year old through a veritable sea of boredom.
Daniela, USA and ItalyMember
Sketching and painting with Róisín is truly freeing for your Artist soul. Beware! It is completely addicting in the most wonderful ways ever imagined!
Kathy, USAMember
It’s rare to encounter such a skilled instructor with a sense of humor that encourages the most timid sketchers towards success & greater confidence!
Barbara, USAMember
With Róisín’s choice of subject, positive attention to work in progress and constant encouragement to keep going, I gained in confidence and skill. More importantly I discovered the pleasures of making watercolour art.
Anne, IrelandMember
I have been a student of Róisin Curé for just over one year. The first time I was introduced to Róisin’s teaching methodology was when I joined an on-line workshop that was hosted by a group of skilled artists.I was intrigued by her complex beach drawing and wondered if I would ever be able to accomplish something similar? As my surroundings at the time was conducive to such a scene, I made an attempt to follow along and to my utter surprise, I was absolutely astonished by the outcome! Róisin’s teaching approach is relaxed, inspirational and captures your attention. The methodology of her teaching skills are of excellent standard and very easy to follow along, In a very complex drawing of a Boulangerie in February 2024, I commented as follows: "This is an absolute dream come true sketch. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I had the capability to draw such a complex scene. Thank you Róisin, your teaching skills are next to none, and I for one, will always be grateful to learn from such a great mentor as you. I had to press the pause button many times, but I made it.” It is with pleasure that I can highly recommend Róisin Curé as a very professional and competent teacher and mentor.
Loretta, South Africa and USAMember
Roisin Cure is an amazing teacher! Her sketch-along sessions have taught me so much about drawing and painting. Roisin makes every lesson fun and so interesting, with a wonderful, personal connection. You learn by doing everything along with her; the best way to learn!
Eileen, USAMember
Róisín Curé, a great sketcher and teacher. She has helped me learn to translate everyday scenes into my sketchbook and shares her methods generously with her pupils.
Gráinne, IrelandMember
I have followed along with Roisin's classes for nearly a year now. I absolutely love her work, it's fun, lively and full of colour. Roisin's teaching style is unique, I've learnt so much since I started to follow along. Roisin breaks learning down so it's easy to follow her . I'm so happy that my sketching and painting skills have improved week on week. I think anyone no matter what age will definitely enjoy learning under Roisin's excellent tuition.
Elaine, UKMember
I’m following a few sketchers on YouTube including you! But what I mostly like about you is the colors you use, each color goes very well together. I also like the size of the drawing not too big (which helps anybody who like me is able to draw but if it is too big I would give up). In fact I, for the first time in my life, draw almost every day!
Nicole, FranceMember
Róisín is a wonderful teacher. I don't know how, but she lets me draw things I never thought I could. Suddenly with every step it comes to life on the paper. Róisín is 100% real: a keen sense of place and story coupled with her directness and humour.
Annett, GermanyMember
Roisin is a highly talented artist, teacher and raconteur. I credit Roisin with teaching me both to draw and paint, with all the tiny details which make your sketches come to life. Roisin is generous, warm and funny to learn from, so if you are considering a course with her, just do it, you won't regret it.
Gina, UKMember
I love your classes for several reasons. First is, you got me into a weekly sketching routine, which inspired me to do even more sketchings and sketching appointments in my area on top of that. Secondly, your classes are real learning experiences and have a subject and a topic (reflections, light and shadow, people....)you show technics to approve difficult structures. It‘s a step by step concept which leads to an immediate success and I can use the technics later in my own sketches. Thank you so much! Third: the importance of contrast when using white. And last, but not least the community in your international group is so very supportive!
Meike, GermanyMember
Dès l’instant où vous commencez un cours avec l’une des meilleures dessinatrices urbaines au monde, Róisín Curé, vous savez que vous allez vivre un régal magique ! Finies les craintes d'échec si, comme moi, vous êtes relativement nouvelles regardant les joies de l'aquarelle et que vous apprenez à gérer ces stylos-plumes Fude géniaux ou, si comme beaucoups, vous avez simplement envie d'un nouveau regard sur ce que ce médium incroyable peut faire, spécialement entre les mains d'une véritable vétérane avec le plus bel accent et une attitude des plus accueillantes, sans oublier son mignon petit compagnon, le chien Reuben, alors un cours (ou trois) avec Róisín est exactement ce que votre médecin vous suggère! • From the moment you take a class with one of the world's best urban sketchers, Róisín Curé, you know you're in for a magical treat! Gone are the fears of failure if, like me, you are relatively new to the joys of watercolor and learning to deal with those funky Fude fountain pens or, if like many, you simply crave a fresh take on what this incredible medium can do, especially in the hands of a true veteran with the most beautiful accent and welcoming attitude, and let’s not forget, her cute little dog Reuben, then a course (or three) with Róisín is exactly what the doctor ordered!
DeeDee, CanadaMember
I attended Roisin's urban sketching course in Galway last year and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Roisin is an excellent teacher who shares her skills in a very easy and fun way, I learned a lot in just a few days and came away feeling much more confident to just go out there and enjoy sketching without worrying about how it will turn out or who is looking on! I carry my sketchbook with me now everywhere I go.....just in case! Thanks Roisin for all your teaching and guidance.
Evelyn, IrelandMember
My discovery of Roísín was exactly what I needed at the right time, as I began to explore watercolour sketching, to help me develop my skills and a sense of having my own style. The broader attention to values, shadows and highlights, and the closer attention to observation and drawing 'what you see' have been equally invaluable. Live zoom classes, YouTube videos or the website archive of lessons ... all are a learning experience and loads of fun from a teacher who is also a wonderful story teller.
Siobhan, Australia and USAMember
I have attended several painting and sketching courses with Roisin Cure. She has always been a most attentive and constructive teacher with endless patience and a superb understanding of students learning difficulties. She uses a wide variety of techniques and subjects and her lessons are always interesting. I would recommend her highly as a teacher.
John, IrelandMember
On an in-person Nature Sketching course: I liked everything. Róisín created a wonderful sense of community. The space was lovely. It was great instruction, in a very supportive atmosphere. An awesome experience!
Eileen A, USAStudent at Artform, September 2024
On an in-person Nature Sketching course: Plenty of time to draw and paint. I particularly enjoyed the value study.
Jo H, UKStudent at Artform, Sep. 2024
On an in-person Nature Sketching course: I liked the technical aspects of painting and the use of ink. The teacher was clear and very informative. I liked the proximity and standard of accommodation. I really enjoyed this weekend and thought it excellent.
Marina H, IrelandStudent at Artform, September 2024
On an in-person Nature Sketching course: Excellent tutor. Róisín made learning very interesting and fun. She was extremely generous with information and is extremely talented. Excellent course. Very good coffee. Martina is excellent, so kind and friendly, as well as being extremely good at her job.
Catherine O'D, IrelandStudent at Artform, September 2024
On an in-person Nature Sketching course: Art tuition was excellent. Róisín was hugely encouraging and reinstated my confidence, in that I now feel it's possible for me to actually create a watercolour that isn't a load of crap 🙂 - No cmplaints, Martina you are the best!
Noreen S, IrelandStudent at Artform, September 2024
From an in-person Nature Sketching course: I loved the glamping pod, it was so cosy. The tuition was very clear and accessible and it was great fun. Róisín is a very giving teacher. The space was lovely to work in. Martina, just keep doing what you're doing and you won't go far wrong.
Lorraine C, NIStudent at Artform, Seoptember 2024
On an in-person Nature Sketching course: I liked everything! A warm welcome as ever. Tutor excellent - kind and well-informed and prepared, and very responsive to the learning needs of the group. Keep going!
Jennifer P, IrelandStudent at Artform,, September 2024

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Amazon Reviews:

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Reviews of 'An Urban Sketcher's Galway'

If you love Galway you will love this
Beautifully produced, substantial hardback book, full of gorgeous Galway scenes, takes me right back there. Visited frequently for many years, and remember the pubs from 40 years ago. Vibrant sketches of vibrant scenes. Though many of the cafes and restaurants are new to me. Very well written too, an engaging insight into some of the artist's history and influences. Got her next book on sketching people on order. (Roisin is an excellent teacher too, I am one of her happy students).
Breathing RemediesAmazom UK ★★★★★
Beautiful water colours of Galway
Bought as a present for a friend whose ancestors were from Galway, she loves it.
S. WillisAmazon UK ★★★★★
A beautifully drawn and written book a must for would be urban sketchers
I just love this book ! It’s a really good incentive to get me out sketching more , I love the way it also tells stories about the artist, her family and all she comes across in Galway.
Mrs T.Amazon UK ★★★★★

Workshops

We offer a variety of sketching courses in Ireland and elsewhere, using pens and watercolour. Please see below for details of the latest courses for adults. We also host sketching workshops in beautiful destinations in Europe, including accommodation, entertainment and fine dining.

    Upcoming France Workshop:

    • Vignettes of the Pyrenees
    • Urban Sketching in Ink and Watercolour
    • Atelier Clos Mirabel, Pau, France
    • 25/07/26 – 01/08/26
    Explore

    Reviews of 'An Urban Sketcher's Galway'

    Beautiful book
    This is a stunning book. Beautiful illustrations, and stories. A great keepsake for any Galwegian.
    Eoin KernanAmazon UK ★★★★★
    Best urban sketching book - ticks all the boxes!
    Definitely, the BEST visual diary & artist's sketchbook published by an urban sketcher that I've seen. Rich in the type of detail that only a local artist can convey, the book is full of charming and skillful sketches. Each page is a delight - the color and line - and Roisin's poetic and humourous point of view. I bought it for the art - as both a reference and source for inspiration - and got more than my money's worth - as Roisin's writing is hilarious, poetic and insightful.
    RigiAmazon UK ★★★★★
    Gorgeous book
    This book is great! both pictures and stories are so full of life and details and wit that you really feel like you are in Galway sitting next to Roìsìn and listening to street musicians or watching seagulls. So much talent! Highly recommended
    RCAmazon Italy ★★★★★

    Roisin's Online Store

    Online Store

    Reviews of 'An Urban Sketcher's Galway'

    What a perfect treat of a book!
    This is a gorgeous book, full of life, characters, and beautiful sketches of Galway city. It's like walking round Galway with the perfect tour guide, showing you all the unique special places and people.
    paeonyAmazon UK ★★★★★
    I really enjoyed this book
    A beautifully produced book with a vibrant,quirky and original take on Galway Ireland, a must have for all Artists,Urban Sketchers and people interested in Ireland.
    Ciaran BrennanAmazon UK ★★★★★
    Lovely Book
    I follow this artist on various social media and have always been impressed with her art. Her paintings are delightful and I can't recommend this book highly enough.
    Steven WayneAmazon UK ★★★★★

    Materials

    For your convenience we supply a range of recommended materials for our sketchalongs and workshops.

    See All Materials

    Reviews of 'An Urban Sketcher's Galway'

    Beautiful Book
    Beautiful book. Love it.
    Michele M. DietrichAmazon Canada ★★★★★
    Love it!
    Love this book! Very Inspiring!
    Amazon customerAmazon Canada ★★★★★
    Not just good art, but good information for the traveler
    We visited a friend in Ireland, and I used this book as a travelogue to become oriented to the western coast. Aside from being artistically beautiful, there is much practical information that turned out to be very useful. This book is far more than just a book on sketching, though the illustrations are superb. It's one of the few travel books that takes you there in as real a sense as can be done by a book or documentary.
    R. SmithAmazon USA ★★★★★

    Watercolour Prints

    The prints and original artwork shown on this web site are all available for sale through this store. Here are some FAQ relevant to giclée prints here.

    Giclée Watercolour Prints

    Review of 'An Urban Sketcher's Galway'

    A fabulous book to own or to gift.
    I love this urban sketcher book by Roisin Cure. I bought one for myself and four more for some of my friends living abroad. It is a beautifully produced hardcover book with gorgeous detailed sketches of Galway city ( where i live!) and text full of useful, fun and interesting stories about Galway. You really feel like you are walking through the city when reading this book or just analyzing the many beautiful ink sketches and vibrant watercolour scenes Roisin has captured. A lovely book to have in any home whether interested in sketching or not. My daughter and i try to sketch the people or seagulls that are drawn in it and my Costa Rican friend has it sitting pretty on her coffee table , dreaming about visiting Galway city someday!. A truly lovely book to own.
    KatherineAmazon review ★★★★★

    News & Blogs

    About Roisin

    Hello! I’m Róisín Curé, from Galway, on the west coast of Ireland. Back in 2012 I discovered urban sketching, and since then a whirlwind of colour and line has swept through my life. I am so grateful for the happy accident that led me to stumble on urban sketching, and my life is infinitely richer as a result.

    Now, as well as organising urban sketching workshops within Europe, I am a freelance urban sketcher. I currently carry out all kinds of sketching assignments, as varied as you can imagine, from festivals and weddings to all manner of businesses. I also teach children all about watercolour and drawing ( I have a quiverful of mini-urban sketchers ready and willing to pin down their lives in art!) and I run my local urban sketching chapter, Urban Sketchers Galway, with pride. We meet about once a fortnight, sometimes more, and we really enjoy the simple act of sketching together around the city.

    I teach all kinds of topics, and I love to sketch all kinds of subjects. Above all I am passionate about others taking up their sketchbooks and joining in, in this absorbing and wonderfully satisfying activity.

     

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