Red Boots

Today, some sketching friends and I sketched at Grand Marketplace, which was filled with interesting things to view or to buy. My eye was drawn to this cabinet where several bright red boots were displayed.

It was lovely to sit  and sketch with the sunshine streaming through the windows. This photo was taken by my friend, Paula, who is very aware of interesting shadows.

This next sketch is from a figure drawing session. The model was terrific and held wonderful poses. Although she was much younger,  at times she had a proud similarity to Judi Dench.

Fold

More Toned Paper

From the warmth of my car on a chilly day, I sketched this entrance to Laurelhurst Park.

Today, I added the shadows. I don't usually have the patience for this, but it went by quickly while I listened to a gripping episode of 'This American Life.'

Now it has a more ominous feel with people walking into the darkness. Is it a result of the radio episode or maybe a foreshadowing of Halloween?

Toned Paper

Sketching with the Compagnons

Friday, it wasn't raining in Portland and some of the Compagnons d'Esquisse went out to Edgefield in east county to spend the morning drawing in the sunshine. This sculpture actually delivers water to the plants that are in the kegs. It's one of the clever creations on the grounds of the old poorhouse that is Edgefield. http://www.mcmenamins.com/54-edgefield-home

I don't know what this little building is. It has a guitarist on the weather vane and a sign that says "No Motorcyles", but those are the only clues.

A few of the Compagnons went to the Canvas  Art Bar and Bistro http://www.thecanvaspdx.com/ to sketch. This is one of my sketches of the model last night.

Last Saturday, it was raining again, so I sketched inside, adding this to my book of small things. It took me three NPR shows to finish it. Trying to get both kings and queens to match was pretty challenging. It was one of those activities where it seems like you can actually feel your brain working.

And that last picture gives me a chance to stick in this Kate Spade display that I sketched months ago at Pioneer Place with the Compagnons.

There's not much chance of wearing that outfit in Portland this summer.