Preserving Urban Memory Through Sketch Art
Amid rapid urban transformation, many architectural works are either forgotten or replaced. Documenting urban landscapes through sketching has emerged as an effective way to preserve the memory of cities.
According to architect Vu Duc Chien, urban sketching places special emphasis on the element of “on-site presence.” Only by being physically present at a location can an artist fully perceive the value of an architectural work, develop deep emotional connections, and gain the level of reflection necessary to authentically recreate the observed landscape. This practice also represents a way of experiencing urban life—an expression of love and respect for urban values.
“The next step after completing an urban sketch is to take a photograph that captures the artist’s presence at the moment of drawing, alongside the sketch itself, to affirm: I was there, and I created this drawing for myself,” he said.
Participating in urban sketching activities in Da Lat, artist Le Nguyen Bao Tran from Ho Chi Minh City shared: “Sketching is a rapid drawing method. The artist captures the main lines and distinctive features of a subject within a very short period of time. Once completed, a sketch is easy to understand and accessible to everyone, allowing its expressive power to spread widely within the community.”
With just a notebook, a pen, and a few colours, anyone can start sketching and create works that bring meaningful and beautiful value to life.
Architect Vu Duc Chien, head of Urban Sketchers Vietnam.
From personal experience observing urban change, artist Trinh Thuc Anh (Lam Vien - Da Lat Ward ) noted: “Alongside development, many familiar aspects of Da Lat are gradually disappearing. For example, this street corner on Phu Dong Thien Vuong Street, once offering a clear view of Lang Biang mountain, is now obstructed by the height of a newly constructed building. Today, it is no longer possible to sketch Lang Biang from that viewpoint.”
According to architect Vu Duc Chien, Da Lat is one of four Vietnamese urban areas where the urban sketching movement has developed strongly. What makes urban sketching unique is the joy people experience in creating personal memories connected to urban heritage, and in sharing these artworks with the wider public—ensuring that such heritage is not forgotten in urban life. He expressed his hope that the movement will continue to expand, contributing more concretely to preserving urban memory.