2011 was the first year that I actually kept a sketchbook on my travels, whether close to home, or abroad. A little while ago, a friend gave me a rather nice little 6″x10″ watercolour travel book and last year I determined to make use of it. As it turned out, I quite handily filled it up and am now scouting for a new one for 2012. Can’t be without one now.
Until recently, I kept sketches and plein air paintings here and there. I wasn’t motivated to keep a small book, my rationale being that if I was sitting down and had the time, why not do something a little bigger? I’m now sold on “small and portable”. Easy to start, pleasing results – with all that media in book format, it transformed small corners of time that would have otherwise been forgotten. Some work started as little sketches (yes, mainly charcoal for those that know me) however, all ended up…not really surprisingly…as watercolours. Most were done on the spot: standing, juggling sketchbook, palette, water cup and brush. What fun. I got a lot of satisfaction from completing the series…and just thinking about it too….much more than the sum of the parts. Here’s a sampling:
Bath UK: Pulteney bridge and weir, 13 July 2011.
Queen Mary 2: Somewhere between Southampton and New York, 23 July 2011.
Ottawa: from Jacques Cartier Park, 08 August 2011.
On the balcony: Punta Cana, 17 December 2011.
Behind the restaurant: Punta Cana, 22 December 2011.
With an earlier start this year perhaps I’ll fill up a couple of books. Roll on the plein air painting season!
I like the idea of the sketchbook. I think it’s a great idea… Something i should take up also. Go Dave!
Thanks Eric…..Perhaps I’ll bring my sketch book next time we meet… to make you feel guilty!
Hi David, I love the soft colours and minimal forms of your waterclours. I’m a great fan of small-based artwork and thought of creating small jewell-like sketches such as these makes me want to take a watercolour class! I really enjoyed participating in your plein-air class last year. Like photography, this would be such a great skill to have while travelling about. I find whenever I take the time to sketch something I get to understand it a bit more… it becomes more than just the passing scenery I may see on a trip. Great work… look forward to seeing more of your beautiful paintings!
Thanks again Michelle….you’re right…. stopping to paint or draw gives a new appreciation… I wonder whether there is really any other way!
Hallo David
Your sketches give a delightful atmosphere & diary of your travels.They are an extension of you as an artist with your beautiful light watercolour images.
Let me know when you have found a new note book as I am also looking for one.I will also keep you up to date with my findings.
Cheers. Rita
Thanks Rita, It may have been luck but I found a selection of watercolour travel books, including the one I used last year, at DeSerres in Gatineau. I would guess other stores would have similar stock.
Hay Dave
I like your technique and the paintings of your travels.
Lets connect soon
Bye bye for now
Catherine
Thanks Catherine and hope to see you soon.
Great blog! Interesting, inspiring paintings, and well designed. I especially appreciate being able to access with my phone and make the font larger without having to scroll horizontally (like many other sites). I am looking forward to reading further posts.
Sonia
Hi Sonia, Thanks for the feedback and I’m pleased the site works well on your phone…what’s the use of a bog if it can’t go mobile!
thanks for share!