Are you bored of the usual dating malarkey? If so, sketch dating could be for you.
An event for singles run by Dulcimer Draws, Sketch Appeal allows you to connect with your date on a deeper level via the art of illustration.
On the night, you'll take part in a range of sketching activities, including drawing a portrait of each other, organiser Dulcie Ball tells us.
The idea for the alternative dating night came about a few years ago, when the London-based illustrator was trying to meet people at speed dating nights and via online apps.
I'm a huge fan of face-to-face, explains Dulcie. I'll often meet with friends and we'll sit and sketch each other. It got me thinking that it would be great if there was a dating event where you could meet new people through drawing.
Dulcie expands and tells us that sketching is a great way to connect with others and find out if you're a good match:
By drawing someone, you can really see if you have any sketchual chemistry, she chuckles. You have to concentrate on what they look like and give them eye contact, which is such a powerful way for us to interact.
She confirms that this is a huge icebreaker and cuts out the need for small talk, awkward banter and the cringey tumbleweed moments that we all dread on a first date.
With speed dating, you don't really have the chance to get to know someone, and I can't be bothered to exchange a load of emails only to find out we don't have any chemistry, Dulcie admits. In London, especially, it is quite hard to form genuine connections with people.
Sketch Appeal will take place at Drink, Shop & Do on Tuesday 23 May and is bound to be a hit after a brilliant reception in 2014. Set in a Victorian bathhouse, the King's Cross shop and cafe regularly hosts craft events and quirky activities.
The last time I put this event on it was a great success, with many turning up to have a laugh and meet new people, Dulcie enthuses.
It's important to remember that this isn't exclusively for those who can draw. The activities aren't designed to test your drawing skills. Sketch Appeal is about sketching to connect-not to impress.
This is a great opportunity to meet new people in a unique and fun way.
There's something really powerful about drawing and being drawn, the illustrator adds. Even if you don't get someone's number, I can guarantee that you will go home with fantastic memories, a stack of dubious/genius artwork, and a balloon with your face on it!
You can find out more about Sketch Appeal on the Dulcimer Draws website.
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