This past weekend I attended the new installment of Dr. Sketchy’s Philly and I must say it was a great experience! Some of you may know that I was director of the Philadelphia branch for the past 2 years (along with Midwives Collective for the first year and then solo for the last year) and just recently handed it over to Steve and Tricia Cleff.

For the past couple of months, I’ve been having Sketchy’s prep withdrawal. In addition to the work required on day of the event, the effort on the back end during the rest of the month involves quite a bit. Corresponding with the models, the venue, artists, press and sponsors, maintaining social networking sites as well as regular site upkeep, and the prime part of the gig for me — marketing and designing promotions for the event. Pulling all of these things together, while a lot of work, is a load of fun. Still, it was time for me to pass the baton due to the fact that my business required a bit more of my time.

While it was the best decision for me to make, I couldn’t help but mourn the fact that it was over. It’s hard to give up something you truly love and believe in — it’s a hell of an event, but I am secure in the fact that the new directors will take fantastic care of the branch. They are a very capable crew.

It’s no secret that I was itching to get to their first session which was this past Saturday, March 13th. I couldn’t wait! Featuring two of my favorite models, Candy Mayhem and D’Arcy D’Lux from Hellcat Girls Burlesque promised for some good sketching opportunities. The new venue, World Café Live is beautiful! Their food is delicious (we tried the hummus) and the drinks were flowing. The theme for the session was a tribute to Antonio Vargas. The models did an impeccable job in selecting their costumes and props — I felt as though I was looking at a couple of Vargas girls. It was wonderful.

I experienced Dr. Sketchy’s from the Art-Monkeys’ perspective and wow, did I have a blast! My fiancé, who was the DJ during my era of Sketchy’s, participated in the shenanigans as well.

While it has been hard to say goodbye, I feel good about the future of Dr. Sketchy’s Philly. I’ll always be their biggest fan and look forward to hearing of the branch’s continued success. Here are a few of my sketches from Saturday’s session. When I was in college, 5 minutes was plenty of time to get the full figure down. I need practice because it’s a bit harder to accomplish now. I guess I’ll just have to keep going to Dr. Sketchy’s! *Note – alcohol was involved, but at least I put down a few solid lines. Ha ha!

All images ©2010 Nicola Black Design, L.L.C. All rights reserved.

Related posts:

1. Dr. Sketchy’s Philly Marketing Materials