Welcome to The Open Sketchbook Podcast! In this host-led episode, Evan Kitson explores how the Pomodoro Technique can help creatives reclaim their time and boost productivity- without burning out. From studio habits to classroom parallels, Evan shares how this simple time-chunking method supports deep focus, rest, and sustainable creativity.
In this episode:
Why “productivity” became Evan’s word of the year
How the Pomodoro Technique works (and why it’s tomato-shaped 🍅)
Parallels between studio practices and figure drawing sessions
The role of planning and rest in creative momentum
How to build intuitive time awareness
Why group work and community help us keep going
A drawing demo using the Pomodoro Technique (YouTube exclusive!)
Want to watch the drawing demonstration? We're on YouTube!
Watch this episode: https://youtu.be/gb97lMVaXBU
Our YouTube Channel: http://www.youtube.com/@theopensketchbook
Featured Technique:
20 minutes on / 5 minutes off: a rhythm used in both creative work and figure drawing classes to maintain focus and prevent burnout.
Weekly Sketch Starter:
Draw your creative space- or a tomato, if you’re feeling brave!
The Open Sketchbook
https://theopensketchbook.com
https://www.instagram.com/the.open.sketchbook/
The Virtual Studio - Join for Exclusive Podcast Content and More!
https://learn.theopensketchbook.com/bundles/virtual-studio
Our Weekly Newsletter, The Drawing Board:
https://theopensketchbook.kit.com/posts
HOST: Evan Kitson
https://evankitson.com
https://www.instagram.com/evan_kitson/
BLOG POSTS TO CHECK OUT:
Creative Productivity: Pomodoro Technique
https://learn.theopensketchbook.com/pages/blog?p=productivity-pomodoro-technique
Evan Kitson's Graphite Drawing Materials Kit
https://learn.theopensketchbook.com/pages/blog?p=graphite-drawing-materials
NEWSLETTER ISSUES TO READ:
Writing Lists & Finding Priorities + A New Weekly Sketching Prompt!
https://theopensketchbook.kit.com/posts/writing-lists-finding-priorities-a-new-weekly-sketching-prompt
Productivity: Commitment to our Creative Habits + Blog Post Roundup and more!
https://theopensketchbook.kit.com/posts/productivity-commitment-to-our-creative-habits-blog-post-roundup-and-more
Productivity: Removing Friction + A New Course Starting Soon!
https://theopensketchbook.kit.com/posts/productivity-removing-friction-a-new-course-starting-soon
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Are You A Charlotte?
In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.