FRIENDSHIP AT THE SKETCH TABLE

At Sketchbook Club, it’s not just about making art – it’s about finding connection. Many of our participants join because they’re looking to meet new people or simply want some friendly company. Often, there are other challenges in the background too, like unemployment, mental health struggles, or the pressure of caregiving. In just a few months, we’ve seen how our gatherings have sparked unexpected and meaningful friendships that have made a real difference in people’s lives.

Take Thomas and Muhammed, for example. Thomas, a young international student from Nigeria, was finding it hard to make friends, manage financially, and keep up with the demands of his studies. Muhammed, an older resident of the Silja ship – home to over 1,000 refugees – was eager to make the most of his time in Rotterdam by meeting new people and stepping outside his comfort zone. They met at Sketchbook Club and quickly formed a special bond. Today, they’re an important source of support for each other – exploring Rotterdam together, swapping tips on how to stretch a budget, and spending hours chatting about the latest shows on Netflix.

Another wonderful example is the friendship between Sheila and Max. Both first came to Sketchbook Club through referrals. Although the people who referred them no longer attend, Sheila and Max have truly found their place here. Each was dealing with the challenges of recent unemployment, the stress of changing career paths, and feelings of isolation. At Sketchbook Club, they discovered a shared love for anime, which sparked a close and lasting friendship. Not only do they show up week after week, but they’ve also taken on volunteer roles to strengthen their skills and build their independence together.

Stories like these show that Sketchbook Club is so much more than just a creative space – it’s a place where people from all walks of life come together, friendships grow, and mutual support flourishes.