Member Event
Discover, Learn and Sketch with Urban Sketchers Vancouver Members!
Discover, Learn and Sketch with Urban Sketchers Vancouver Members!
Join Urban Sketchers Vancouver at the Opus Art Supplies Coquitlam location! Discover how to get involved, the group's core values, and gain insight into Urban Sketching! The lead artists will begin with a “Sketchbook Show and Tell.” They will also be available to answer any questions you may have about urban sketching and what to consider when heading out to paint outdoors, from art materials to additional gear!
Following the indoor activities, attendees will head out from the Coquitlam store to explore local parks or Mackin House, putting their skills into practice in a lively outdoor setting. The event will conclude back at Opus, where everyone is invited to share their sketches, experiment with fun art materials, and foster meaningful community connections among fellow art enthusiasts. This gathering promises to be a wonderful opportunity for creativity and collaboration - register today!
Materials - Participants are required to supply their own art materials for the outdoor portion of the event. Please dress for the weather and for being outside.
What to Bring:
- Sketchbook
- Drawing tools (pens, pencils, markers, watercolour paints, etc.)
- Optional: portable stool
- Water bottle or snack
Note: Food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum or railcar.
Hosted by Opus Art Supplies & our Experience leader
Urban Sketchers Vancouver is an official chapter of a global non-profit organization called Urban Sketchers. This organization is dedicated to promoting on-location drawing and connecting people worldwide who draw in various locations to share their stories about the places they live and visit. All skill levels and styles are welcome to join the community! As an official chapter, they adhere to the Urban Sketchers' manifesto, which emphasizes drawing on location, both indoors and outdoors, to directly capture what they observe. Their drawings tell the stories of their surroundings, reflecting the places they live and travel to, and serving as a record of time and place. They strive to be truthful to the scenes they depict, using any media that resonates with them while celebrating their individual styles. In addition, they support one another and take pleasure in drawing together, sharing their artwork online as they aim to show the world, one drawing at a time. To get involved, follow them on social media to learn about their meet-ups and post your sketches! Regular meetup updates, special event announcements, event summaries, and other useful information can also be found on their Substack newsletters.Substack: uskvancouver.substack.com
Instagram: @usk.vancouver
Facebook: @Urban Sketchers Vancouver
Website: urbansketchers.org
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Opus Member Events
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to register in advance?
Yes—most events require registration to reserve your spot. Free demos with limited space can fill up quickly, so we recommend signing up early.
What’s included in a paid vs free event?
Paid events may include hands-on instruction, materials, and exclusive product offers. The details will be listed on the event page.
Free events may include a short, informative session led by an artist—perfect for picking up techniques, learning about materials, and sparking inspiration. You’re welcome to paint along, but it’s not required.
Will I get a recording if I miss an online event?
No. These demos are live-only. If recorded, the footage is gifted to the artist and not shared publicly.
Can I attend an online event if I don’t live in BC?
Yes! Our online events are open to artists across Canada and beyond.
Where are events held?
We host events both in-store at select Opus locations and online via Zoom or other platforms. The location and format will always be clearly stated.
I registered but didn’t receive a confirmation email. What should I do?
Check your junk or spam folders first. If you’re still unsure, email Pamela Mark at pmark@opusartsupplies.com to confirm your registration.
What’s the difference between free and paid events?
Free events are short, demo-based sessions led by professional artists—great for inspiration and learning.
Paid events offer deeper, hands-on instruction with more time, materials, or exclusive access. They’re ideal for artists looking to grow their skills.
Some paid events are free or discounted for Artist and Creative Tier Members.
Is it okay to ask questions during the demo?
Absolutely. Use the community chat to ask demo-related questions. Our host will relay them to the artist as time allows.
When will I be let in from the Zoom waiting room?
We open the room right at the start time. Arrive a couple of minutes early to avoid delays.
How can I apply to be a demo artist?
We love connecting with artists who teach and inspire. Apply here to share your skills in an upcoming demo.