What if your weekend hobby became a decade-long love letter to a city? For a group of urban sketchers in Beijing, this is reality. Every weekend for 10 years, they’ve gathered to document the capital’s bustling streets, ancient hutongs, and modern skyscrapers—one stroke at a time. 🖌️
Art as a Time Capsule
CGTN reporter Yang Yan recently joined these artists, discovering how their sketches preserve Beijing’s evolving identity. From elderly residents playing chess in alleyways to neon-lit business districts, their work freezes fleeting moments into tangible history. "We’re not just drawing buildings," said one sketcher. "We’re capturing the soul of the city."
More Than Just Pencil and Paper
The group’s members range from architects to delivery drivers, united by their passion. Many use recycled materials, turning coffee-stained napkins into canvases. Their Instagram-worthy creations have sparked a youth movement, with hashtags like #SketchTheCapital trending locally. 📱✨
Why It Matters
In an age of smartphone snapshots, this analog art form encourages people to slow down and observe. As Beijing rapidly modernizes, these sketches serve as visual diaries—reminding residents and travelers alike of the city’s layered beauty. Ready to grab a sketchbook?
