Eyes Wide Open

It's funny how things can strike you. I was driving along and got stopped for the light at North and Clybourn in Chicago-a place I've passed a hundred times- when the shapes and arcs just blew me away. I don't know if it was the lighting from the gathering storm that called my attention to the scene in a new way but I just had to put in on paper ASAP.

Hot Time in the City

It was an incredibly busy but wonderful couple of days! WIth two wedding anniversaries, a birthday and Father's Day to celebrate with children and grandchildren we had a joyous time!

I made it out to the Monday sketch group but it is quite clear from the results that my mind was back at home with the crowd!




It was a hot day but the shade was deep and cool! In case you can't figure it out the little square sketch is a fountain LOL.

Ah, Wilderness!

Our Monday summer sketch group started up again. This week seven of us met at the Lincoln Park Zoo. We sketched (and chatted) for about two hours and then blended back into our daily routines.

The zoo was crowded and we attracted more attention then usual but it was fun. It was the first time I tried to use watercolor on site in this situation. I probably should have worked on the sketches a little more but …what can I say except a good time was had by all!

I like the square format of the sketchbook I've chosen for summer in the city.

Rain, Rain Go Away

Another rainy day in Chicago. The Green City Market was open but it sure wasn't a day to sketch. These are a few sketches from last year that I didn't show you.

In the spirit of full disclosure, the trash cans and the people on the bench were really done the same day.

It's also the Old Town Art Fair weekend. My heart goes out to the exhibitors. If it let's up a little we may venture over. Tomorrow it should be sunny . Good for the artists but not for us-other plans will prevent us from going.

The End of an Era?

My favorite Borders is closing sometime this year. It's one of my favorite places to walk to when I want to get out of the office or need a little creative fresh air. It's great for a quick sketch or two. The Seattle's Best Cafe is on the second floor and is my crow's nest from which to watch the Michigan Avenue people traffic. Inside, everyone is busy reading or computing and never realize that they are my models of the moment. I'll miss it. Fred at "Fred's Scratchings" has recently changed his longtime drawing hangout with great success. I hope to follow his example!