How do I auto select layer within an artboard?

I would like to auto select a layer within an artboard with a single click. My use case is that I am doing storyboard thumbnails, and with my brush tool selected, I would like to push command, and auto select the next panel to draw in (see screen shot of setup).

Right now, pressing command and clicking will select the Artboard, not the layer within the artboard. I need to go to my layers panel if I want to actually select the right layer, which would be an annoying step, as I have lots of artboards created.

Mostly just wanting to know if this is even possible.

Thanks!