St. Johns Bridge

Here's another attempt at the beautiful St. Johns Bridge. The graceful cathedral-like structure with the misty, dark Douglas Fir-covered hills in the background make me want to sketch this scene every time I drive over the bridge. Of course, the other drivers wouldn't appreciate it if I stopped right then and there, so I found a little cafe nearby where I could stay warm and dry while I sketched away.

Cast Stone Building Ornament

On our sketchcrawl at the Architectural Heritage Center I found someone to sketch who was guaranteed not to fidget or become embarrassed at my staring. She sat patiently while I studied her to my heart's content. I've been working mostly in pen and ink and watercolor recently, but graphite is hard to beat for a satisfying values study.

Ultrasound Portrait

This is the second page of a sketchbook I am making to give to my new little granddaughter when she gets older. It tells the story of her first couple of years from my perspective. (The first page is here.)  I remember how amazing it was to see her for the first time via ultrasound. This is her in the second trimester.

For this project, I am using one of the sketchbooks I made.  What a luxury to have such sturdy paper (Fabriano Artistico 140 lb.) to work on! I think I am getting addicted to both using and making my own sketchbooks.  I bought some more paper and cover materials yesterday, and am looking forward to making some more books soon!

(facing page)