Demo + Sketching St. James Cathedral and Park

Built in 1853, the Gothic Revival architecture of the St James Cathedral has been part of Toronto’s skyline for more than 170 years. As the cathedral remains one of Toronto’s most recognizable landmarks, it is definitely one of our mandatory places to sketch.

Our visit this time will feature a short demo presentation by our host and fellow urban sketcher Yasir @yasirhameedarts

11am - Look for the USK Toronto flag. We will meet at the Michael Comstock Pavillion in the park east of the cathedral for a quick 10-min meet and greet, and a demo. If this is your first time joining a USK Toronto meetup this year, please introduce yourself to the hosts.

11:10am - Yasir will do an approximately 15-20 minute demo.

11:30am - Independent sketching begins, and sketchers are welcome to explore the park and around the church. Given that it’s Sunday, there may be a worship service inside the church, be respectful of the parish.

1:30pm - Meet back at the Michael Comstock Pavillion for our throw-down to share sketches, chat, and take a group photo.

Tag @usktoronto, @stjamesto, and @oldtowntoronto in your social media posts— we all would love to see your sketches!

Where: Michael Comstock Pavilion at St James Park - 120 King Street East
When: Sunday, August 30, 2026 - 11am-1:30pm
Hosts: Yasir, Vivian

Photo & sketch courtesy of Natalie @natalie.dauntless

Read more about the international Urban Sketchers organization here:

https://urbansketchers.org/

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Urban Sketchers Manifesto
1. We draw on location, indoors or out, capturing what we see from direct observation.
2. Our drawings tell the story of our surroundings, the places we live, and where we travel.
3. Our drawings are a record of time and place.
4. We are truthful to the scenes we witness.
5. We use any kind of media and cherish our individual styles.
6. We support each other and draw together.
7. We share our drawings online.
8. We show the world, one drawing at a time.
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