Meet USK Bahía de Cádiz

BY MONIQUE CHIAM

It all began during a painting workshop at Plaza de Candelaria, over midday coffee. The plaza is a quiet square in the city of Cádiz, Spain, filled with plenty of foliage and shady spots to sit and people watch. Founders José, Mar and Celia wanted a way to unite those who had a passion for drawing like themselves; to create a meeting point to share and learn from one another. They also thought it would be a nice way to get to know the bay area (Bahía) through drawing. This is how Sketchers Bahía de Cádiz was born. It now has around 65 members, with an average age of 50 years, and the group meets on the first Saturday of the month as well as every Thursday morning.

The city of Cádiz is located in southern Spain in the Autonomous Community of Andalusia. It is a narrow strip of land that extends out from the mainland and curves around to protect its bay. It is believed to be the oldest city in Western Europe, being founded by the Phoenicians more than 3,000 years ago (named back then as “Gadir”). It was a main port for trade, making it a melting pot of Roman, Visigothic and Muslim cultures. Cádiz is known for its beautiful beaches, architecture, and its hospitable people who have a great sense of humour. Urban sketchers will especially love to get lost in its narrow streets, capturing the light and beauty on paper.

USK Bahía de Cádiz is a passionate and diverse group. There are teachers, architects, draftsmen, as well as doctors, nurses, and dancers. The materials they use are equally diverse, ranging from markers, watercolors, and inks, to collage and wax.

“The most important thing about our group is what we all learn from each other: techniques, color, composition, etc. We share what we do, how it is done, and what is intended from both sides: the person who is interested and the person who is sharing. The exchange of information and feedback has been the best aspect of the group. In addition, new sketchers feel welcomed and keep coming to draw with us every day. Community sense and support is granted.”

SKETCH BY ARTURO CALETA

SKETCHES BY ARTURO CALETA

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