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Sketching Adventures: Exploring Singapore (Travel Blog Part 1)


A collage of Singapore images. Scapbook inspired. Travels of illustrator Darlee Urbiztondo also known as Happylee

Hey there, folks! I'm thrilled to be back in the Philippines, and boy, do I have an exciting travel story to share with you all!


This particular trip holds a special place in my heart because it marked the first time I ventured out with my amazing friends. We go way back to our university days, and believe it or not, we hadn't seen each other in a decade! Thanks to the pandemic, we reconnected and supported one another during tough times. It was our dear departed friend who had sparked the idea for this trip, so we decided to honor him by bringing it to life.


But before we dive into the details, let's rewind a bit. My journey began with a pit stop in Singapore, accompanied by the most patient and wonderful person in my life—my partner.


Now, let's talk about the real star of the show: my brand-new traveler's notebook and leather case! Being a huge fan of Abbey Sy, I couldn't resist the temptation when we stumbled upon a shop at Marina Mall that had my dream products. Naturally, I splurged and treated myself to those goodies. During this trip, I made it my mission to step out of my comfort zone and experiment with a brush pen for the first time.


Honestly, I was filled with a mix of excitement and apprehension at the beginning. The fear of making mistakes and creating uneven strokes haunted me. But you know what? I decided to cast those worries aside and embrace a fearless approach to my strokes.


Here is a flip-through of my sketches in Singapore




Let me tell you, drawing in public places was quite an experience! Not only did it give me a chance to express my creativity, but it also allowed me to truly soak in the mesmerizing art that enveloped the foreign country I was in.

Singapore, oh Singapore! This place is a haven for urban sketches. It reminded me so much of Dubai, with its mind-boggling fusion of architecture and landscaping. The buildings there are like something out of a sci-fi movie, boasting ultra-modern designs that defy imagination. I must admit, though, as someone afraid of heights, the thought of shopping alone in those towering malls gave me a bit of a shiver. Those buildings are seriously sky-high!


Now, let's talk about the absolute highlights of my Singapore adventure:

  1. Witnessing the captivating Light Show at Gardens by the Bay: It was a spectacle, with lights dancing in perfect harmony and illuminating the night sky. Pure magic!

  2. Strolling down the vibrant and artistic Haji Lane: This creative street was a feast for the eyes, bursting with colorful murals, quirky shops, and an undeniable energetic vibe. Talk about a photographer's dream!

  3. Embarking on a refreshing morning hike at Woodlands: There's something truly invigorating about immersing yourself in nature and enjoying a tranquil walk amidst lush greenery. It was the perfect way to start my day.

  4. Paying a visit to the renowned Van Gogh Museum: Now, this deserves a blog of its own (stay tuned!). The museum was an absolute treasure trove of Van Gogh's masterpieces, and I can't wait to share my experience in more detail.



Every time I release a new blog, I always feel scared, but as an artist and an agent of culture (from Susan diRende | Comic Fantasy Writer), I am forcing myself to believe and act in the power of sharing.


Taking this leap of faith fills me with a profound sense of purpose, as it's through these sketches that I hope to inspire others to embrace their creativity and explore the beauty surrounding us.


Remember, we all start somewhere, and growth comes from venturing beyond our comfort zones. Let's embark on this artistic odyssey together, encouraging each other along the way.


So, my friends, keep your eyes peeled for my upcoming blog about the Van Gogh Museum. There's so much more to come from my unforgettable trip to Singapore and Malaysia!


Thank you for reading! I hope this blog is inspired! Let's keep creating happiness!




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