Keywords: urban sketching Alberobello, urban sketchers Puglia, sketching in public, creative community in Italy, art therapy, drawing and mental health, Alberobello travel sketchbook, artistic events in Puglia, drawing with children, plein air drawing Italy
A few days ago, I joined a newly formed group of urban sketchers from Puglia and Basilicata for a drawing session in the magical town of Alberobello, famous for its whitewashed trulli houses and timeless charm. It was a simple event — just pens, sketchbooks, and shared passion — but something deeply meaningful happened to me that day.
Since moving back to Puglia, I’ve often felt a bit disconnected. Back when I was living in Paris, it was natural for me to grab a sketchbook and head to a park or café to draw the world around me. There, people expect and even celebrate this kind of thing. But here, in southern Italy, urban sketching is still not as widespread, and I started to feel isolated, spending too much time indoors. I missed the buzz of the city, the casual exchanges, and the chance to share my creative energy with others.
So when I heard about this new sketching group, I didn’t hesitate. And it turned out to be exactly what I needed.
Drawing in public, surrounded by others who share the same love for observation and line, made me feel centered again. I felt, for the first time in a while, completely at home — not just in a physical place, but in myself.
There was something magical about sitting among the iconic trulli, sketching with strangers who quickly felt like friends. We didn’t need to talk much — the pens and paper did the work. What surprised me most was the natural ease I felt — no judgment, no pressure, just presence. I was especially touched when curious passersby stopped to look, ask questions, and smile. Children, in particular, were fascinated. Two little French kids even came up to me proudly saying, “Nous aussi, on dessine !” — “We draw too!” That moment filled my heart.
Drawing, like many artistic practices, is a form of therapy, a way of connecting with ourselves and the world. It reminds us to slow down, observe, and share beauty. In a time where everything feels rushed and digital, we need to cultivate our creativity more than ever.
Seeing people engage with our group, smile, ask questions, and even sit next to us to watch, made me realize how much hunger there is for beauty without expectations, for creativity shared in real time. This experience showed me that we need to keep going — and grow this initiative.
If you’re in Puglia or Basilicata and feel the same urge to create, observe, and connect, we’d love to have you. Our group is completely free, open, and informal. No fees, no pressure — just bring your sketchbook and your curiosity.
Send me a message if you’d like to join or learn more. Let’s keep spreading beauty, one sketch at a time.