Sketching for Painting: Is there a Right or a Wrong Way?

Sketching Step 2: Simplify the Subject of the Sketch

In this sketch of the left-hand part of the scene with the skyscrapers, you can that the artist isn't intending to have highly detailed skyscrapers in their painting, but has rather recorded the shapes they make. The same for the people walking on the beach, who are reduced to mere hints.

• Sketching Step 1: Assess the Subject of the Sketch
• Sketching Step 2: Simplify the Subject of the Sketch
• Sketching Step 3: Include Only the Essential Elements of the Scene
• Sketching Step 4: Back in the Studio