Inside and Out
A Shop Facade in Ink and Watercolour
A Shari Blaukopf online video demo
Capture local character, charm and complexity — all in one sketch
In this video demo, I’ll take you through a sketch inspired by a charming little shop I spotted while traveling in the UK. Gurney’s Fish drew me in immediately. How could I resist the beautiful signage, the little chalkboards, the layer upon layer of detail that made this storefront so full of idiosyncratic life and character?
Using ink and watercolour, I’ll show you how I brought this scene to life, from the first loose lines to the final splashes of colour. Whether you’re sketching on location or from a photo, as I do in this demo, you’ll pick up practical tips to help you simplify a busy scene and add just the right touches to make it your own.
Some of what we'll cover in this demo:
Learn how to simplify and resize a complex scene
Suggest depth by contrasting interior warmth with exterior light
Tell a story with just the right amount of texture and detail
Ever stood in front of a complex scene and wondered, "Where do I even start?"
In this demo I’ll show you how to:
- Tackle a complex subject by painting the big shapes first and saving details for last
- Capture both interior and exterior light and elements in a single composition
- Use ink line to create structure, rhythm, and detail — making the painting process easier
- Add fresh watercolour washes for light, shadow and depth
- Tackle glass, reflections and signage without overworking your sketch
My Inside and Out demo includes:
- A full-length video demo (approx. 40 minutes) that you can watch at your own pace, as many times as you like
- Closeup views of my brush, palette and paper so you can see the relationship between brush wetness and dampness of the paper
- Downloadable reference image, so you can paint along
- A detailed list of materials
- My insights on how to stay loose and expressive — even with intricate scenes
- A comments section where you can ask questions and post your finished shop facade
- With lifetime access, you can revisit this demo whenever you need inspiration or a refresher
Here's what's included:
FAQ
How long is this demo?
It’s 40 minutes in duration, and includes a full urban scene painted in ink and watercolour.
How long will I have access to this demo?
Once you sign up, the demo is yours to watch as often as you like.
Who is this demo for?
You should have some basic experience drawing, sketching or painting.
What tools will I need?
There is a full downloadable materials list that accompanies this demo.
Will I have access to the demo immediately?
Yes, once you register you’ll have access to the full video so you can start learning, drawing and painting immediately.
How do I find the courses I am enrolled in?
Go to the top of the page and look for the "My Courses" tab. All the courses you have registered for are right there.
