Montmartre in My Sketchbook

2 – 3 miniute read

Sketching the Charm of Montmartre, Paris

Montmartre in My Sketchbook, Sketching in Paris is a dream come true for any artist, and the Montmartre district, with its rich history, unique character, and vibrant streets, offers endless inspiration. During my recent stay in this iconic neighborhood, I took my sketchbook and set out to capture the essence of Montmartre through a series of sketches that reflect its spirit, architecture, and everyday scenes.

Exploring the Sacré-Cœur Basilica

My sketching journey began with the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, a stunning landmark that sits atop Montmartre Hill, offering a panoramic view of Paris. I decided to create a quick sketch from an upward-looking angle to emphasize the Basilica’s towering presence and intricate architectural details. The grand domes, with their distinct Romanesque-Byzantine style, seemed to stretch toward the sky, creating a perfect subject for a loose, expressive sketch. Moving inside, I sketched a portion of the interior dome, focusing on the beautifully detailed mosaics and the interplay of light and shadow that gives the Basilica its serene atmosphere. I made some annotated notes alongside these sketches, reflecting on the building’s history and how its unique style contrasts with the bustling streets below.

The Art Nouveau Metro Signs

Montmartre in My Sketchbook, Montmartre is famous not just for its landmarks but also for its charming Art Nouveau metro entrances. I devoted part of my sketchbook to capturing these iconic signs, which are a hallmark of Parisian design. On one half of my double-page spread, I sketched the flowing, organic lines of a classic Art Nouveau metro sign outside one of the local stations. Its ironwork, with curving shapes and floral motifs, seemed alive with movement and energy. I added another sketch of a slightly different metro entrance nearby, both serving as visual waypoints that blend art with function. Alongside these sketches, I included a small hand-drawn map of Montmartre, zooming in on the metro areas to provide context to these drawings and give a sense of place and exploration.

Parisian Rooftops and Skyline

During another sketching session, I found myself captivated by the Parisian rooftops—a quintessential view of the city, especially from Montmartre. From a high vantage point, I sketched the sea of rooftops stretching out before me, with the Eiffel Tower faintly visible in the distance. The rooftops, with their chimneys and varying heights, create a rhythmic pattern against the sky. Later, while sitting at a cosy café, I continued sketching these rooftops from a different angle, capturing the charming and somewhat romantic feel of Montmartre. The area’s rooftops, with their character and texture, provide a visual narrative that is distinctively Parisian.

A Personal Connection to Montmartre

These sketches are more than just drawings—they are a visual diary of my experiences in Montmartre. The combination of quick, on-the-spot sketches and detailed illustrations helped me capture the essence of this historic neighbourhood, from its iconic landmarks like the Sacré-Cœur and Art Nouveau metro signs to its everyday beauty seen in rooftops and narrow streets. Each sketch tells a story of a moment spent observing and absorbing the charm of Montmartre, turning fleeting scenes into lasting memories.