My Project for Illustrated Diary: Fill Your Sketchbook with Experiences

I took the course “Illustrated Diary: Fill Your Sketchbook with Experiences” by David Morales to freshen up my drawing skills and break through a creative block I was experiencing during the summer holidays. As an artist and educator, I often get caught up in structured work, and this course offered a refreshing, playful way to reconnect with observational drawing, storytelling, and everyday inspiration. It helped me slow down, notice the small things, and rebuild a more spontaneous and personal drawing habit.

Micron Pens, Drawing Pencil, White Gel Pen, Colored Markers

To ease into the process, my initial sketch was a still life of my money plant — a familiar and calming subject that helped me get started.

For my second sketch, I returned to my usual medium of micron pens and drew inspiration from the colonial architecture of Rawalpindi. I focused on the intricate windows of old houses and titled the piece "Bariyaan" — the Urdu word for windows — as a tribute to these fading remnants of the city’s past.

In exploring everyday experiences, I took inspiration from my siblings and nephews during our vacation. I captured candid moments from their daily activities — playful, ordinary scenes that hold quiet meaning and joy.

One of the places I miss the most is IKEA — not just for the retail therapy, but for the calm and comfort it offered. During our visit to Muscat, we made countless trips there, each one turning into a small adventure. The highlight for me was always watching my daughter’s eyes light up with wonder at the kitchen displays, even from a very young age. It felt only natural to capture that joy and nostalgia in an illustration, turning a familiar space into a treasured memory on paper.

To make the drawing more personal, I included small souvenirs from our visits — like the iconic IKEA paper ruler and a torn piece of the receipt. These little fragments helped ground the illustration in real experience, transforming it into a visual diary entry layered with memory.

Some of my favorite sketches from this project came to life around food — moments shared over breakfast, lunch, dinner, or quick bites in between shopping sprees. I sketched most of the places we visited as a family, capturing not just what we ate, but the experience of being together.

Whether it was the aroma of freshly baked bread, the vibrant colors of a mezze spread, or the soft clink of teacups during a much-needed break, these drawings became a visual journal of our meals and memories. Food, for me, became both a subject and a setting — a way to preserve those everyday joys that brought us closer during the trip.

Bimmah Sinkhole
An absolute natural wonder — the Bimmah Sinkhole is a magical blend of beauty and mystery. Set amidst rugged terrain, its dazzling turquoise waters glisten against the pale limestone walls, creating a mesmerizing contrast. It has become a must-visit spot for our family whenever we’re in Oman — especially because the kids love taking a refreshing dip in the cool, crystal-clear waters.
We made the journey with my brother driving us all the way there, and as a small memory, I later added the car we traveled in using a piece of butter paper I found at the time — a tactile reminder of the day.

Marina Bandar Al Rowdha
Driving along the coast from Old Muscat to Al Bustan, we were treated to breathtaking views of Marina Bandar Al Rowdha. The dramatic meeting of rugged mountains and calm, shimmering sea made for a truly spectacular landscape. The ever-changing horizon along this stretch is both grounding and awe-inspiring — a perfect subject for pen and ink.

Nizwa Fort
A symbol of Oman’s rich heritage, Nizwa Fort stands proudly with its massive circular tower and centuries-old charm. The fort’s earthy tones, traditional architecture, and the surrounding market bustle gave me plenty of inspiration. My pen drawing focuses on the rhythmic geometry and bold shadows, capturing the timeless strength of this historic landmark.