Draw Derby - May 2026

Founded by Karen Logan in January 2022 and now run by a group of regulars, Draw Derby is a free, monthly, outdoor, all welcome gathering in Derby city centre. Come and meet likeminded others and DRAW together! Bring a curious and playful attitude, jump in and have a go! Draw Derby welcomes complete beginners and those experienced in drawing.

Draw Derby is:

✏️ Simple - same place, same time, the last Saturday of the month throughout the year (except January and October 2026 - please check dates)

✏️ Free - the monthly gatherings will always be free

✏️ Outside - being visible, a provocation in the city

✏️ Connecting with place - through regular and repeated engagement

✏️ Drawing together - an opportunity to find drawing kin

✏️ Building community - who hears the call?

✏️Welcoming - anyone who wants to draw

✏️ Gentle accountability - to show up and draw

✏️ Self-directed - for participants to use the time in whatever way suits them, under the umbrella of Draw Derby

How does it work?

We meet in Derby Market Hall in the seating area near Cheeky Pancakes at 10.30am on the last Saturday of the month throughout 2025.

We then move to another location for a different viewpoint of the city.

After two hours we share drawings and exchange supportive feedback back in the Market Hall or in a local arts venue or cafe (if this is something you'd like to do - no one will be forced to share).

Please bring something to draw with and something to draw on. There are no rules about materials. No materials provided.

We all draw. This is not a tutored event. You draw what you see, in your own way.

What will we draw?

The city space will provide our inspiration, draw what's around you and focus on whatever catches your eye.

Travel Information

Parking is available nearby at Bold Lane and Chapel Street car parks and parking cards can be validated at the Museum and Art Gallery or the Museum of Making to give a discounted rate of £2.70 for a day.

There are frequent and regular bus services into the city centre, operated by Trent Barton and Arriva. Derby Bus Station is a 5 minute walk away.

The Market Place is a 20 minute walk from Derby Train Station.

What happens in bad weather?

Sites will be chosen with the weather forecast in mind, so on rainy days we will draw in locations with overhead shelter.

What do I need to do?

Book tickets so we can monitor numbers

Choose what to bring and prepare sketching materials

Check the forecast and dress appropriately

Meet in Derby Market Hall on the date/time shown and be ready to draw

Follow on Instagram @drawderby

Any questions?

For more information contact Jenny and Tom - [email protected]

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