Took a lovely stroll through this neighborhood in Philly recently. SO much charm! I love all the period details on the homes—reminded me a bit of Beacon Hill in Boston. The brick, the boot scrapers, marble stairs, architectural details and little surprises like the sweet dog taking a nap in the window!
winter walks in NYC...
All the architectural details really stand out when the sky is foggy and gray–unless the buildings are so tall that they vanish into the sky. These are some recent snaps of the city. Midtown and UES.
daily sketchbook
I committed to this practice of working in my sketchbook each morning and have really enjoyed it! I did it for a few reasons, but mostly to break out of drawing the same types of things over and over—and to experiment with different techniques. Lately I am working primarily in gouache and colored pencils, but other days I just sketch in graphite or play in watercolor. I force myself to try new subject matter so that I can become more skilled in creating more complex scenes; drawing from different points of view and angles. I highly recommend this practice to any illustrator. It is such a peaceful way to start the day. :)
Luncheon, art & the key to the park
Perfect weather, a great walk down to Gramercy Park and an amazing luncheon at the prestigious National Arts Club. My friend Andrea ha a lovely landscape painting in the exhibit there so we all got together and toasted her. The building was incredible—with its stained glass dome in the dining room to gorgeous fireplaces, palrlors, bay windows, bookcases and doorways.
The real treat was getting the key to Gramercy Park. For those not familiar—the only way to gain entry is to reside or work in one of the buildings facing the park. For years I wanted to go inside…I remember walking across town after classes at SVA and stopping by the gate to try and peek inside.
It did not disappoint. Lush gardens, fields of swaying allium, gravel walkways, beautiful benches and the classic wrought iron fences throughout. We all sat in the sun and took in the perfect mid sixties temps. If I win the lottery I will purchase a condo in that square. For that park alone! :)
change of scenery...
I’ve been mixing up my walks lately and find myself exploring new areas. When I set out, I often don’t know where I am heading but each day I walk, I turn down a different street to see where it goes. Sometimes I walk the same road for miles before turning, but with each different street, I feel so inspired. This area may not be beautiful to some, but I find beauty in the old buildings, signage and tangle of telephone wires hanging above the streets. Maybe in some way it reminds me of some of the old neighborhoods in Massachusetts—a little Hopperesque. Spring has brought a constantly shifting sky and the weather can change on a dime when I am out there wandering. At times I get rained on, but that’s just part of the adventure.
