Watercolor journey with the course Roman Architecture by the Yale University.
I continue the art series with the course Roman Architecture + the city of Rome with Yale’s course Roman Architecture https://www.coursera.org/learn/roman-architecture. Rome, Palatine Hill, Romulus Founds Rome, Roman Architecture. 2-1.
Romulus founded the city of Rome and on Palatine Hill and archaeologists still find the remains of that village and houses from which the Roman Empire began to expand. It is difficult to imagine that on this huge passage there was once a small village, which was dug into a wonderful city, my beloved Rome. According to the legend, Romulus founded the City of Rome, on the 21st of April in 753 BC. Romulus village had huts made of wood that had thatched roofs. There are similar huts in a small village in the Maya Riviera near Cancun. Anyone who will visit this place might imagine that they are in a future city of Rome of the 8 century BC.
Rome, Palatine Hill, Romulus Founds Rome, Roman Architecture
The Palatine Hill is the oldest inhabited one in Rome. Actually, the name of the hill comes from the name of the goddess Pales – the patroness of cattle. The hill has long been a place for grazing pets and worshiping this goddess. The first permanent settlements appeared here in about 1000 BC, judging by the archaeological artefacts that appeared on the Palatine. There is the Palatine Hill’s archaeological museum with the Romulus House with the model of huts in the village of the Iron Age.
Several years ago I was in the Capitoline Museums in Rome, near the reproduced images of the Romulus village at the Palatine and Capitoline Hills; I stared in these pictures with fascination to find more information. Who would have known that in a few years I will learn about the Roman architecture and I will have the opportunity to understand why I was so delighted?
Rome, Palatine Hill, Romulus Founds Rome, Roman Architecture
Year of construction- 753 BC
Address: Rome, Palatine Hill, Piazza S. Maria Nova, 53V
Tools used for my painting Watercolour Charvin Ruby red and Emerald, Derwent, Albert Durer and Faber Castell watercolour pencils. Paper Acquarello Fabriano cold pressed watercolour album, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.)
Δ
document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );
The magic of the holidays is in the making! Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure
You are welcome to visit my personal website pages. There, you can find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings. You can buy canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
Art and Travel. Pompeii, bakeries and millstones. Introduction. Bathing, Entertainment, and Housing in the Roman City. 1-4.
The Daily Grind
After my Roman architecture course, I turn to my artwork. This session’s lecture explored the concept of “Bread and Circuses,” an allegorical phrase originating with the Roman poet Juvenal. To understand this principle, we studied Pompeii. It is an Italian city frozen in time by the volcanic eruption of Vesuvius in 79 CE. Pompeii offers a vivid window into daily life nearly two millennia ago. Through this study, I envisioned the bustling routines of ancient Romans.
The Inspiration – Juvenal
The millstones have square sockets in which wooden beams would have been placed. It features an arched brick oven with a view of the millstones in Pompeii. I chose to the painting for this session about the ancient bakery. In fact, all modern ovens still keep the design of those ancient ovens that became a prototype!
How about you, do you like to paint about food?
The Sensory Experience
After a fascinating dive into Roman architecture and the insightful “Bread and Circuses” lecture (thanks, Juvenal!), I’m channeling my inner baker in this new piece, an ancient bakery. To see the process in a Pompeian Bakery, we would find a mill, a large stone wheel, and many ovens. A bakery with ovens filled with warm bread reminds us of the daily life of ancient Pompeii. The smells of baking grain also evoke this historical scene.
Painting – Pompeii Via Provinciale Ripuaria, 53, 80045 Pompei NA, Italy.Roman Architecture. Year of construction-79 BC.
Can you smell the fresh bread?:)
A watercolor depiction of a Pompeii bakery featuring an arched brick oven and millstones, showcasing ancient Roman daily life.
In Pompeii, bakeries played a crucial role in providing bread for the city’s inhabitants. Bakeries typically consisted of a mill for grinding the grains. They also had an oven for baking the bread. Additionally, there was a shop where bread was sold. Bakeries give us an incredible glimpse into what life was like in Roman Pompeii.
The Scene Setter. Itinerary to Pompeii
When I was in Pompeii, I imagined myself as an inhabitant of Pompeii. How about your experience?
After the lecture Professor of History of Art and Classics Diana E.E. Kleiner Dunham, I have the next artistic (with many sketches) and travel itinerary.
So, my suggestion during your next trip to Pompeii visit a bakery nearby, where you buy bread… Then go to fast-food Thermopolis, an old-aged “McDonalds”. Next, visit a public fountain to take some water. In antique life, kitchens, baths and running water were not available in the houses. Thus, everything was public, including the bath complex. There were also public stores and bakeries with lovely paintings on the walls.
Well, I still prefer modern comfort. But, seeing the beautiful design of public fountains and bakeries is really great. It’s a wonderful way to plunge into the past, at least for a short while.
The echoes of ancient Rome resonate through time, whispering tales of a civilization that shaped the course of Western history. From grand architectural marvels to intricate social structures, the Romans left an indelible mark on the world.
A peaceful scene depicting a resting cat atop stone millstones, reminiscent of ancient Pompeii.
All roads lead to Rome – Alain de Lille
Bon voyage! Until the next travel:)
Hope you enjoy this little slice of history as much as I enjoyed bringing it to life on paper!
What do you think of my artwork? Let me know in the comments.
Tools used for my painting Watercolor Cotman sap green and mauve + Van Gogh siena paint, Derwent, Albert Durer and Faber Castell watercolour pencils. Paper Acquarello watercolor Fabriano grana grossa rouch album, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.)
The magic of the holidays is in the making! Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
Trajan’s Market. Exploring Yale’s Course on Roman Architecture (1-3). Art Inspired by Ancient Rome.
I continue my favorite Roman Architecture course. I’m diving into a project that combines my newfound knowledge with my artistic practice. So, the next part of the Yale’s course Roman Architecture is..
Roman Tombs, Aqueducts, and the lasting impact of Roman Architecture
This week’s lecture blew me away… we dove deep into the magnificent Forum of Trajan! Seriously, picture this: ancient Rome, but make it “shopping paradise”! Trajan’s Market (Mercati di Traiano) was basically the world’s FIRST supermarket! A massive complex of shops, a true dream for any fashionista or shopping enthusiast (past or present!). The forum itself? Pure magic. Ancient Roman street design perfected, a symphony of stone that’s truly “frozen music.”
I can only imagine the buzz and energy that filled that space. The ancient Supermarket Trajan’s Market was a large complex of bazaar with series of shops. The Trajan Forum was the dream place for any fashion and shopping lovers. This was the first supermarket, all subsequent supermarkets in Rome and around the world built in the same way. The Forum of Trajan has characteristics of ancient Roman street design, beautiful and magic architecture, frozen music in stone.
Trajan’s Forum and Market: A Shopping Paradise in Ancient Rome
Imagine stepping back in time. Don’t just step back to a period of history but into the very heart of a bustling, vibrant city. Forget dusty tomes and silent ruins. Picture yourself immersed in the sensory overload of ancient Rome. Focus specifically on the Forum and Market of Trajan.
Painting- Rome, Markets of Trajan, Roman Architecture
Year of construction- 113 AD
A watercolor depiction of the historic Trajan’s Market in Rome, showcasing its ancient architectural beauty.
Address: Via Quattro Novembre, 94, 00187 Roma RM, Italy
To truly appreciate Trajan’s Forum and Market, it’s essential to understand the man behind the vision: Emperor Trajan. Reigning from 98 to 117 AD, Trajan was a beloved and highly successful emperor. He oversaw a period of unprecedented expansion of the Roman Empire, marked by military victories and significant public works projects. Trajan was known for his dedication to the people of Rome. He understood the value of investing in infrastructure. Public spaces were important to him. The Forum and Market were a direct result of his efforts to improve the city.
The Construction: A feat of Roman Engineering
Building the Forum of Trajan was a monumental task, literally and figuratively. It required extensive excavation to level the terrain, cutting back a ridge that connected the Capitoline and Quirinal hills. This massive undertaking showcased the Romans’ engineering skills and their ability to move vast quantities of earth and materials. The project also involved innovative use of concrete and other construction techniques that were groundbreaking for their time
The Architecture: A Symphony in Stone. Grand Canyon and Roman Architecture
Just a funny thought. Our family visited the Grand Canyon several years ago. My impression of this natural, earth-made architecture with its rocks and relief mountains is profound. It reminds me of Roman architecture with its ancient buildings’ rounded windows, beams, doors, ribbed ceilings, and columns.
Roman architects definitely took their ideas from nature. This is reflected in Trajan’s design. The architectural genius arose from earlier revolutionary innovations in architecture.
Roman Architecture soundtrack
The sheer scale and ambition of this Roman masterpiece is truly breathtaking. Thinking about the materials, the intricate carvings, and the historical significance… it’s mind-blowing!
Now, to fully immerse myself in the feeling of being there (virtually, of course! )
I’m trying to find a playlist to set the mood for learning the course about antique Rome. I am choosing music that helps me to capture the beauty of Trajan’s Forum – Suite Bergamasque, L. 75: III. Clair de Lune” – Claude Debussy.
Live in Rome (past and present)
I usually adding a live to my sketching. Imagine: a cat contemplating the grandeur of Roman engineering:)
He was witnessing the majestic arches, columns, and domes of ancient Rome come to life.
This wasn’t just a place. It was a testament to Roman ingenuity, a hub of commerce, and a dazzling display of architectural prowess.
A vibrant watercolor illustration of Trajan’s Market, showcasing its ancient architectural beauty, with a playful cat in the foreground.
A little cat is exploring the ruins with me. Every trip in Rome, I see some cats. They are diving into the grandeur of Roman architecture with a purr-fectly delightful twist!
The magic of the holidays is in the making! Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure
You are welcome to visit my personal website pages. There, you can find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings. You can buy canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
Tools used for my painting Watercolor Cotman sap green and mauve +Van Gogh siena paint), Derwent, Albert Durer and Faber Castell watercolour pencils. Paper Acquarello watercolor Fabriano grana grossa rouch album, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.)
This part of Roman Architecture‘s course was about Pompeii’s daily life in general, with many photo references. Pompeii’s streets look very modern with lots of bakeries, wine shops in the residential part of the city. For example, scientists discovered more than 30 bakeries. Few people in ancient Rome could afford to bake bread at home, so most bought it in the bakeries. Millstones for bake and for bay and ovens, that are part of bakeries look exactly as today’s bakeries in Italy. There were many fountains everywhere, for example a famous fountain with representations of the goddess Ceres.
I chose to paint the residential area with BIG pedestrian polygonal blocks of stones. It is a crossing part of the street. They are “talking” to us, telling their ancient stories about Pompeii’s daily life. If there was torrential rain, and the water piled up, people needed to cross the street without stepping in the water, but how? Romans were ingenious and concerned about their roads and pedestrians.
The stepping stones were placed in the streets so that people could cross the roads during and after the rain. Ancient people could easily walk around and were not afraid to wet their shoes and long dresses. As they continued gathering with friends and families, walking to the city’s centre or theatre, enjoying their daily life.
At the same time, these stepping stones were spaced apart far enough so that carts could still pass through the streets easily. The visible ruts that came from the horses and carts, between the stepping stones, show that they had to coordinate the wheels of the cart in such a way that they would span the stepping stones. Ancient Pompeii citizens could easily make their way across that stream by utilizing these stepping stones, “pondera”.
This was a genius architecture feat with responsible thinking thought about pedestrians. And even when my family walked in the city-museum of Pompeii with its astonishing view and a background of 2 majestic mountains- Vesuvius and Montezuma, we still found ourselves completely astounded by the stepping stones!
Painting – stones on the Streets of Pompeii -Daily Life, Roman Architecture
Year of construction- 79AD
Address: Pompeii
Tools used for my painting Watercolour raw sienna, permanent rose, Charvin vert imperial, Albert Durer and Faber Castell watercolour pencils. Paper Van Gogh National gallery watercolour album, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.)
The magic of the holidays is in the making! Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
Roman concrete and the revolution in Roman Architecture. 3-1
There is a wonderful place near Rome, UNESCO city of Palestrina. The Sanctuary of Fortuna Primigenia at Palestrina (ancient Praeneste) in Italy was built in the 2nd century BCE in honour of the Goddess Isis, the goddess of femininity and motherhood and Fortuna, the ancient Roman goddess of luck. It was built on a natural hill on cement.
My painting is about the interior space of the Sanctuary of Fortuna Primigenia. It was a Sanctuary with built-in shops and a detached theatre in the Middle Ages. For my painting I added subtle bluish and greenish hues, because, of course, the stones fell off and the cement had been exposed over the millennia. Luckily for us, the Temple with its delicate arches has survived until now, and modern architects and archaeologists continue to explore and discover the secrets of ancient Roman architects even after millennia.
The genius Roman architects noticed that the volcanic dust, which is found in the sea in Italy, turns into pumice when in multitude. They realized that it can be used to strengthen any building. This revolutionary discovery created the Roman cement from ash, lime, sand, pebbles of a certain size and volcanic ash and sea water. Added either be large stone blocks or it could be small pieces of stone presses into the concrete when concrete was still wet. When dried, these stones made the building look more attractive and protected the building from moisture.
Like modern constructors, the Romans erected wooden frames for the walls and ceilings and poured the concrete into them. Romans solved two problems this way, protected cement from moisture and hid the non-attractive part of cement at the same time. I would add that they were saving money for the construction and gaining valuable experience. Using the new revolutionary technology, they started to build not only Temples and villas for the rich, they started to develop and build more, and thanks to this experience and development, today we can still admire the architectural monuments of the past.
Another one-day trip from Rome is on my way in Italy:)
All roads lead to Rome – Alain de Lille
Bon voyage! Until the next travel:)
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
Address: Via Colle Pastino 20, 00036, Palestrina Italy
Tools used for my painting Watercolour Cotman terra de siena and viridian Corman, Charvin bleu royal, Derwent, Albert Durer and Faber Castell watercolour pencils. Paper Van Gogh, National gallery watercolour album, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.)
Watercolor journey with the course Roman Architecture by the Yale Universitypart 3
I continue the Art + Roman Architecture + the city of Rome with Yale’s course Roman Architecture . Roman Architecture. Introduction The urban Grid and Public Architecture.1-2. Link to the course is at the end of this post.
Painting –Rome, Pantheon, Roman Architecture. Year of construction-126 AD. Address:Piazza della Rotonda, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
My painting for this session is about the Pantheon, focusing on its extraordinary, light-filled interior space. The Pantheon’s construction, which utilized Roman cement and stone, was revolutionary. Do you agree that the Pantheon’s grandeur, scale, and elegance represent Rome itself?
A watercolor depiction of the Pantheon in Rome, highlighting its iconic oculus and intricate architectural details.
For centuries, the Pantheon’s majestic Oculus, the massive concrete dome with an central opening has gazed down upon countless imitations.
Ancient architects cast Roman concrete within wooden molds. This innovative technique fundamentally challenged the rigid architectural conventions of the time.
The prevailing Greek and Etruscan designs favored straightforward, rectilinear forms, with simple, flat roofs. The Pantheon, nonetheless, featured a vast dome and innovative use of concrete. It offered a revolutionary departure. This served as a blueprint for architects across the ages.
The Pantheon is a masterpiece of Roman architecture with an innovative structure
The eye of the Pantheon through the centuries has become a model for many buildings. Ancient architects were pouring the roman cement into a wooden model. Essentially they broke the inflexibility of belief from the Greek and Etruscan architects that any architectural buildings should be only straightforward and rectilinear, including roofs
It is so fascinating facts how many building in Europe and North America stand as a testament. These structures demonstrate the Pantheon’s enduring legacy. I am learning from the Professor of History of Art and Classics Diana E.E. Kleiner Dunham that U.S.Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. , British Museum in London, National Gallery of Art and among many others buildings.
The building showcases the power and glory of Rome and its architecture. It is one of the greatest buildings ever conceived, a testament to human ingenuity.
Lost in Time & Whispers of History
Another story about my vacation. I spent the afternoon sketching this little wanderer, seemingly on a mission! Watch this elegant kitty gracefully navigate these ancient, worn stairs… leading towards the magnificent Pantheon de Roma! ️
The contrast between the modern cat and the timeless architecture is just stunning. Makes you wonder what secrets these walls have observed and what stories the kitty’s journey holds.
All roads lead to Rome- Alain de Lille
A sketch of a cat gracefully navigating ancient stairs, symbolizing the contrast between modern life and Rome’s timeless architecture.
For my artists colleagues . Tools used for my painting Watercolour PWC jaune paint+ (combination PWC indigo paint +Van Gogh ultramarine paint), Derwent, Albert Durer and Faber Castell watercolour pencils. Paper Acquarello watercolour album. Fabriano grana grossa rouch Watercolour album, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.)
Innovations in Concrete at Rome: The Tabularium and the Theatre of Marcellus. 3-4
Ancient Rome offered its citizens a number of stunning venues where they could be entertained, wined and dined. The Theatre of Marcellus was one of the most impressive theatre, located in the center of Rome. Apparently Seven famous hills was not enough for Roman architects and if they wanted to build a theatre on a flat terrain, they cemented an artificial hill and built a tribune in the very center of the city where people could sit. For this monument Romans used many architectural innovations, especially their pedestal and yes, the theatre was the precedent for the Colosseum. Theatre of Marcellus was reused as a fortress in middle ages, main prototype for Roman theatres and nowadays it is an expensive condominium. The Romans took what the Greek architects did, and then they took from the Etruscan architectural achievements. They combined the best of both brilliant civilizations of architectural discoveries, then added something of their own, developed further, without fear of experimenting.
For my watercolor reference’s painting of the Theatre of Marcello with a nearby column of the Temple of Apollo , I used the Google Earth app to view the building from a bird’s eye view. Julius Caesar planned the open-air theatre but died before it was completed. Then Emperor Augustus took up the reins and dedicated the theatre to memory of his nephew and son in law Marcellus in 17 BC, when the theatre was used for dramas and arena fights.
Teatro Marcello was decorated with marble statues and large bronze vases, placed around the perimeter to enhance the sound, masks of the heroes of comedies and tragedies. The inner part consisted of three tiers of marble steps, divided into sectors for noble townspeople, places for women, a separate area for common people and slaves. And the box of the emperor was separated from the other seats. Augustus ordered that the interior design of the theatre surpass in its splendor all previous buildings.
I like how Vitruvius, the Roman genius-engineer, artist, architect and writer who wrote 10 books about architecture, described the Greek columns. Theatre of Marcellus’s Doric columns are attached to the 1st level as a “male” column: simple, courageous, no curls or ornaments. Ionic columns are on the second floor, they are the “feminine” type of column with elements of a lady’s hairstyle. Corinthian columns probably decorated the third floor, although nothing survives of the top level, this is only an assumption of scientists since this level has not been preserved.
It was also the preliminary design for the Colosseum and they are so similar… When our family first passed by the Theatre of Marcellus we thought it is the Colosseum, from a view from another side of the street… Theatre of Marcellus was built only a couple of centuries earlier than the Colosseum. I would like to buy tickets for the Roman music concerts here. Every summer there is a series of classical concerts that take place here called “Notti Romane al Teatro di Marcello” and I would imagine the ancient open-air theatre where people used to come and listen to great music or performance in 17 BC.
All roads lead to Rome – Alain de Lille
Bon voyage! Until the next travel:)
Painting – Rome, Theatre of Marcellus, Roman Architecture
Address: Via del Teatro di Marcello, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Tools used for my painting Watercolour Cotman terra de siena and viridian Corman, Charvin bleu royal, Derwent, Albert Durer and Faber Castell watercolour pencils. Paper Van Gogh, National gallery watercolour album, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.)
The magic of the holidays is in the making! Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
Art and Travel. Watercolor journey with the course Roman Architecture by the Yale University.
I am pursuing a new artistic path in watercolor illustration through my studies at online Open Yale course. There so many interesting facts I am learning from the Professor of History of Art and Classics Diana E.E. Kleiner Dunham. Link to the course is at the end of this post.
A vibrant watercolor painting showcases the rooftops and architecture of a city. It is framed by lush greenery. The painting reflects the themes of Roman architecture explored in the Yale course.
Painting journey of my three passions
Roman Architecture and Art with references and learning from Yale University Roman Architecture, Professor Kleiner about art, architecture.
The course Roman Architecture is my favorite one. I love to travel. I would like to discover the power of architecture to shape culture and society. I plan to do this with my extra research from the lectures.
The nine-week course explores the great cities and their building
The nine-week course offers an exciting exploration of magnificent cities and their remarkable buildings. It celebrates the engineering wonders of Rome and its empire.It is inspiring visions of their significance in both ancient and contemporary contexts.
Rome, cities of Pompeii, Sicily, France, Germany, Greece, Turkey, Croatia and the rest of Roman Empire.
Experience the full brush of Rome’s beginning as an Iron Age village. Learn how it became a world-class city. Discover its transformation into a gigantic empire surrounding the Mediterranean Sea.
The Romans had a remarkable impact on architecture worldwide, inspiring countless designs even today. Enrolling in the Roman Architecture course excites me as.
It will equip me with the skills to create my very own Roman City Art Project. I’m eager to learn valuable architectural techniques . And that will not only enrich my project but also enhance my life in amazing ways.
Every temple has its story and legend, I love all lectures with interesting facts of the professor Diana E.E. Kleiner. One of the good things about learning is the professor’s enthusiasm and her own photos. Also, I will use my husband’s photos and my own sketches from our multiple vacations in Italy.
Cats sketching as part of my learning journey
A vibrant pastel sketch depicts Italian architecture. It reflects the beauty of Roman structures. The influence of art was studied in the Yale University course.
I will add some live to my illustrations for architecture. It will be some cats. What do you think about this idea? Are you usually adding some animals or birds for your sketching?
I am reading what I will learn and this is very exciting. The course starts from 8 B.C. architecture and moves from one revolutionary experiment to the next one; and my paintings will follow the consecutive process of the development of Roman architecture that was born out of ancient Greek and Etruscan styles
I hope that soon I will travel to Rome with all my new knowledge from the Roman Architecture course :)
Watercolor painting of a bridge scene, capturing a vibrant sunset reflection on the water.
I am ready for a new educational adventure in watercolor illustration.
I will pick a photo reference from a lecture for each painting. I am going to share my quick comparison for four picks of art watercolor albums and paints.
Acquarello watercolour album. Fabriano cold pressed
Acquarello watercolour album. Fabriano, grana grossa rouch
Fluid 100, cold press
Van Gogh, National gallery
Watercolour paints:
Van Gogh travel box
Van Gogh tubes
PWC
Cotman
Winsor Newton
Charvin
Box Munovo
Gelly roll Sakura white pen
Watercolour pencils Albert Durer
Watercolour pencils Faber Castell Durer
Watercolour pencils Derwent
I am exciting to start the course and share my thoughts and illustrations for the lectures in my posts.
Below is the link to the Roman Architecture course
Watercolour used Charvin and Van Gogh brands, Pastel GrayPas Expressionist, Derwent watercolour pencils and Faber Castell artist pens, Paper Strathmore Watercolour and Mixed Media albums, 15×20 cm (6×8 in.)
Still life and urban sketching — basically me trying to make inanimate objects and city blocks look more interesting than they actually are.
Yes, I carried my sketchbook here. No, I don’t regret it.
Barcelona has an indescribably magical atmosphere of a unique and endlessly creative city — you know, the kind of place that makes you wonder how it got so cool without trying. From Antonio Gaudí’s legendary masterpieces (that defy normal architectural rules) to today’s innovative artists still riding that creative wave, Barcelona basically wrote the book on how to be fabulous.
Barcelona said ‘be inspired.’ I said ‘hold my paintbrush.’
I’m continuing my flowers&cities series, and this time I’m obsessed with the blue thistle. Why Barcelona? Well, according to my imaginary painting logic, it matches perfectly! This post features some gloriously bright blue cultured thistles that will either inspire your next Mediterranean adventure or at least make you wonder why anyone bothers with ordinary purple flowers.
This thistle’s color palette? It’s got depth-of-sea blues, some moody olive tones, sprinkles of raspberry, and pineapple-y yellow hues — basically the Barcelona version of Casa Milà in flower form. You know, Gaudí’s stunning modern architectural masterpiece that looks like it melted in the sun and decided to stick around anyway.
Thistle: 1. My colour mixing skills: nervous.
Behold: another thistle! This one’s sporting petals of lilac and turquoise — colors that somehow perfectly capture Barcelona’s old historical centre, Ciutat Vella, with its Gothic Quarter that screams “Look how old and charming I am!” in the most photogenic way possible.
Gothic Quarter energy in flower form. Très dramatic.
Meet another thistle, this time decked out in azur and silver petals. In my professional artistic opinion (which I made up), this one represents Barcelona’s most Instagram-famous resident: La Sagrada Familia. I’m pretty sure Gaudí would have approved of my choice, or at least not sued me for it. :)
Gaudí approved. Probably. He was busy.
And here comes thistle number four (I’ve lost count) with colors of raisins, figs, and blue sea tones — basically screaming “I’m La Rambla!” at you through its petals. You know, that famous pedestrian walkway known for its historical architecture and the mild chaos of street performers who may or may not be actual statues.
La Rambla thistle. Watch out for the mimes.
This thistle’s rocking a combination of rose-salmon and pale-brown petals — tender, bright, and way more coordinated than your average wildflower. Question: Do you prefer “Barcelona” by the legendary Freddie Mercury, or perhaps the lovely “Barcelona” by Giulia y Los Tellarini from the movie “Vicky Cristina Barcelona”? Because this flower apparently has a soundtrack.
This one came with a Freddie Mercury soundtrack in my head.
Let’s talk about Antonio Gaudí y Cornet for a second — the man who literally devoted his entire existence to Barcelona and transformed it into the architectural wonderland we know today. He’s basically referred to as “genius loci” (fancy for “the genius of the place”), which is a lot of pressure but also kind of accurate. He shaped not just the look but the very soul of the city. No big deal.
All paintings belong to the author. Seriously, don’t copy them without permission. I mean it. No image theft, please.
Bon voyage! Until the next travel adventure :) Now go forth and stay healthy, you magnificent human.
Still life and urban sketching (with extra thorns)
The spiky diva herself. Don’t touch.
My sister asked me to paint a thistle flower that captures its personality: character, strength, inflexibility, firmness, and an almost aggressive refusal to die under any circumstances. Basically, the Rambo of the flower kingdom. Challenge accepted! I created an entire series of these botanical warriors that thrive everywhere and survive conditions that would make other flowers quit their jobs and move to Arizona.
Behold: one of my first watercolor flower graphics with ink—a masterpiece created when I was still discovering my artistic voice. I wielded cooler purple and dark violet like a tiny ninja, with strategic additions of carrot orange and silver gray. (Translation: I threw colors at paper and it worked.)
Purple and orange? She woke up and chose violence.
The thistle is credited with possessing the magical ability to ward off evil spirits. So basically, it’s the flower equivalent of garlic and a cross combined. Vampires and demons should be very, very worried.
Now here’s where it gets spicy: The thistle has been Scotland’s symbol since the 13th century. Legend has it that some ambitious army decided to invade Scotland by launching a surprise night raid. Tactical genius, right? Wrong. In their infinite wisdom, the invaders removed their shoes to move stealthily through the darkness. Spoiler alert: their stealth plan came to an abrupt end when one unfortunate soldier stepped barefoot on a thistle. The resulting shriek? Loud enough to wake the sleeping Scottish soldiers, who then proceeded to win the day. And THAT, my friends, is how a tiny spiky flower saved an entire nation. You’re welcome, Scotland!
Scotland’s unsung hero. Barefoot invaders not included.
The thistle is the official emblem of the Knights of the Order of the Thistle—a group of people who basically said, “You know what this order needs? A flower that actively hurts people.” Their motto? The Latin phrase Nemo me impune lacessit, which means “No one will touch me with impunity.” (Translation: This flower has zero chill.)
Thistle wildflower watercolor graphic alert! With ink, because subtlety is overrated. I mixed colors like I was a culinary artist: pink, milky blue opal, saffron latte, and neon colors for extra pizzazz. If your thistle painting doesn’t make people’s eyeballs tingle, are you even trying?
Pink, neon, and zero regrets.
I’m absolutely obsessed with pink thistles and their refreshingly simple color palette. A splash of plum color, some pistachio background, and boom—you’ve got botanical happiness on paper. It’s like painting flower versions of minimalist interior design.
Minimalist thistle. Maximum attitude.
Thistle watercolor wildflower painting featuring petals the color of blueberries and purple grapes. Translation: I made fruit jealous by using their colors on a flower. The audacity!
Blueberry vibes. Not edible. Learned that the hard way.
Watercolor flowers graphic extravaganza! With ink, because apparently I can’t help myself. Colors used: strawberry petals (obviously), light khaki, and a shade of flax background that somehow made the whole thing work. Art is chaos. Beautiful, intentional chaos.
Strawberry fields forever — but make it thorny.
Plot twist: Some thistles come in caramel and turmeric colors. Because apparently thistle diversity includes the entire spice rack.
Caramel and turmeric. The spice rack called, it wants its colors back.
Here’s the thing about pink thistles: they’re the most popular thistle color, which is why I gathered all my pink watercolor paintings in my first post about this fabulous flower (complete with Scotland’s legendary defense narrative). And now, hold onto your berets: a thistle is not just the floral emblem of Scotland AND Lorraine—it’s ALSO the emblem of the Encyclopedia Britannica. That’s right, thistles are basically the overachievers of the plant world. They didn’t just stop at one honor. They went for three.
Red thistle flower and my absolute favorite city in Spain, Madrid—basically my love letter in plant form. Because apparently when I want to express passion, strength, energy, and fearlessness, I paint spiky flowers. Revolutionary, I know.
Madrid called. I answered in watercolor.
Madrid. A city with more sides to it than a geometry textbook—aristocratic, bohemian, and commercial all rolled into one impossibly stylish package. The moment you land there, something magical happens: the city whispers, “Hey, you look like you belong here,” and suddenly you feel like you actually do. Your city. Your home. The place where you’re meant to thrive (or at least enjoy really good tapas while pretending you belong).
Naming just a handful of Madrid’s masterpieces would be like choosing a favorite child—borderline impossible and slightly offensive to everyone involved. But here goes: Plaza Mayor (where people-watching reaches Olympic standards), Puerto del Sol (it’s basically Grand Central Station but cooler), the Prado Museum (where you can contemplate art for hours and feel intellectually superior), the Royal Palace (proving that “bigger” sometimes actually is better), Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum of Art (for when the Prado wasn’t quite enough art for your art-hungry brain), and Retiro Park (nature’s masterpiece to balance out all the human-made masterpieces). We’ve been there more times than we’d like to admit, and it’s absolutely penciled in for our next rendezvous. Or three. :)
I got so inspired that I created an entire series of watercolor and ink paintings featuring vibrant red and warm peach-colored thistles, all dedicated to one of my favorite cities in Europe. Because nothing says “I love you, Madrid” quite like painting prickly flowers obsessively.
This particular thistle features petals in tomato and red cabbage tones, paired with an indigo background because apparently I’m all about dramatic color combinations and life choices.
Tomato red meets indigo. Fancy.
Here we have a thistle sporting pomegranate and scarlet petals against a lemon and coffee-colored backdrop—basically proving that flowers have better color sense than most interior designers I know.
Pomegranate. Scarlet. Basically a salad, but make it art.
A watercolor masterpiece featuring thistle with shades of raspberry and blueberry swirling together with dark blue, crowned with celery-green leaves. Bright, bold, and absolutely gorgeous. (I’m biased, but also right.)
Raspberry, blueberry, dark blue — someone was hungry while painting.
The sunny thistle: a wildflower sporting cocoa-colored petals with artistic flourishes of cognac and a moody bluish background—basically the sophisticated cousin of all the other thistles.
Cocoa and cognac. The only acceptable breakfast palette.
And finally, a thistle with amethyst and salmon-hued petals floating against creamy, tender-feeling colors. This one’s basically the introvert of the collection—softer, dreamier, and slightly less inclined to poke you.
Amethyst and salmon walk into a painting…
If you ask me, Madrid is the red color personified. The land of gazpacho, bullfighting, and flamenco basically *is* red. Passionate, vibrant, unapologetically bold. And I’m absolutely here for it. :)
Madrid in the wild. No filter needed (okay, maybe one).
All paintings belong to yours truly (aka me). No image shall be copied without permission, or the color-mixing gods will have words with you.
Bon voyage! Until our next travel adventure (and probably another painting series). Stay healthy, stay curious, and keep your eyes open for wildflowers. You never know when one might inspire your next masterpiece.
Still life and urban sketching — or as I like to call it, “procrastinating at tourist attractions with a sketchpad.”
Paris. The city of love, croissants, and inexplicably rude pigeons. Here’s the thing about Paris that nobody tells you: you don’t actually need to leave your hotel room to find beauty and inspiration. Just open the window and look around — you’ll find architecture that makes your apartment back home look like a cardboard box, monuments that have been standing longer than your entire family lineage, street names that sound like songs, memorial plaques commemorating people who actually did important things (unlike me, who’s mainly known for eating an entire wheel of Camembert while crying about climate change), restaurant signs in fonts that would make a graphic designer weep with envy, and murals that prove even walls have more artistic talent than most of us. Seriously, there’s something uniquely extraordinary to discover at every street corner. Paris doesn’t just hand you beauty — it ambushes you with it when you’re least expecting it, usually right after you’ve accidentally stepped in a puddle.
Paris: where even the streets are judging your outfit.
Do you ever think about cities as flowers? Or as colors? No? Just me? Cool, cool.
Thistle. A delightfully thorny wildflower featuring a magnificent display of eggplant and gold petals — nature’s way of saying, “I’m fancy and dangerous.” If the Luxembourg Gardens had a personality, this would be it. I’m convinced these flowers applied to art school and were accepted on their first try.
Thistle #1 — eggplant and gold. Fancy enough for the Luxembourg Gardens, too spiky for a hug.
Thistle, take two. This particular specimen features sunny petals in the colors of pumpkin, orange, and beetroot — basically, if fall and autumn had a very colorful, very spiky baby. Yummy, right? (I mean, I wouldn’t recommend eating it. Paris is basically the thistle of cities — beautiful, elegant, and ready to stab you if you’re not paying attention (both literally, with its spiky architecture, and figuratively, with its devastating charm).
Thistle #2 — pumpkin and beetroot. Autumn had a baby and it’s delicious (don’t eat it).
Thistle, round three (I promise this is getting somewhere). This wildflower rocks petals in canary yellow, spicy red, and burgundy — a color palette so sophisticated it makes the Pantone Institute nervous. It immediately evokes the Opera Garnier, one of the most aggressively elegant buildings in all of Paris.
Thistle #3 — canary yellow and burgundy. Opera Garnier called, it wants its colour palette back.
Thistle, the extended remix. This version features petals of amber and purple — a combination that somehow looks like what I imagine royalty smells like. And the flower buds? They range from massive to microscopic, rather like the museums scattered throughout Paris’s city center: Musée d’Orsay (the cool one everyone’s heard of), the Louvre (the one that gives you existential dread just trying to find the bathroom), Musée de l’Orangerie (deceptively small but absolutely packed with Monet’s fever dreams), Musée Marmottan Monet (for when you want MORE Monet, because apparently one museum wasn’t enough), Musée Jacquemart-André (where rich people kept their rich person collections), and Musée de Cluny (medieval vibes and the Unicorn Tapestries, which I definitely didn’t spend three hours staring at while taking blurry photos on my phone).
Thistle #4 — amber and purple. Smells like royalty, stings like a parking ticket.
Thistle number five: The Grand Finale. This specimen features a mustard-violet flower with thorns the color of, well, apple skin. Stylish as Parisian sweeping and majestic boulevards — which is to say, it looks like it went to finishing school in Switzerland and then casually conquered Europe while sipping espresso. The vibe is undeniably “I woke up like this but also spent four hours getting ready.”
Thistle #6 — apple thorns included. Looks elegant, will absolutely draw blood.
Thistle, the encore performance. Featuring peach-colored petals against a copper and amber background — basically what the Eiffel Tower looks like in the morning when you’ve woken up early because you couldn’t sleep (jet lag is romantic, apparently). This color combination is so warm and glowy that it makes you believe in magic, or at least in the possibility that Paris might actually be worth all the hype.
Thistle #7 — peach and copper. The Eiffel Tower at 6am. Romantic and deeply unreasonable.
Bon voyage! Until the next travel adventure :) Stay healthy, stay curious, and remember: life is too short to not travel, not sketch random flowers, and not pretend you understand French when someone speaks to you at a café (just nod and smile — it works 60% of the time, every time).
Bon voyage! Don’t forget your sketchpad. Or your beret. Actually, just the sketchpad.Thistle #5 — mustard and violet. The boulevard of wildflowers.
All paintings belong to the author and are protected by the ancient artist code: look but don’t touch, admire but don’t copy, and definitely don’t use without permission or face the wrath of someone who takes their wildflowers very seriously.
Still life and urban sketching—because thistles are basically nature’s way of saying ‘don’t get too close.’
Rome is basically an open-air museum that refuses to close. Ever. The streets are littered with buildings from every architectural era imaginable, as if someone dumped 2,000 years of interior design catalogs all in one place. It’s chaos. Beautiful, Instagram-worthy chaos.
Rome: where every corner looks like a movie set. No filter needed.
Thistle in watercolor with ink—featuring a delightful palette of pumpkin, turmeric, pineapple, and brick-colored stems because apparently I was hungry while painting. It supposedly represents Rome’s Pantheon: monumental, elegant, and totally not something you’d want to hug. The whole thing is basically an antique temple dedicated to gods who would probably be confused by modern WiFi.
Thistle #1: Painted while hungry. Named after an ancient temple. Sounds about right.
Here’s the truth about Rome: it doesn’t need color. Seriously. Just slap some sepia on it and a few ‘tender shades,’ and suddenly marble fountains and statues become artistically moody. It’s like Rome hired the world’s best Instagram filter and never turned it off.
Emperor Augustus once said: ‘I found Rome a city of bricks and left it a city of marble.’ Translation: ‘I showed up and flexed so hard that everything got an upgrade.’
Thistle number two: wildflower with avocado and cherry-colored petals because apparently I was on a mood board binge. The chaotic petals remind me of the Roman Forum’s ancient ruins—you know, ruins that used to be someone’s important government building but now just vibes there mysteriously. Every time you visit, you find something new. Mostly it’s tourists like you, but sometimes it’s actually history!
Thistle #2: Avocado meets cherry. The Roman Forum approves from its mysteriously crumbled remains.
Thistle number three, now in violaceous hues (fancy word alert!). It reminds me of Borromini’s architecture in Rome—all concave curves and convex swagger with sharp angles that would make a modern architect weep. Remember Gaudí’s Barcelona houses? Same energy. But here’s the thing: Borromini’s stuff is actually calm and airy despite looking like it wants to fight you. It’s strong, persistent, and stubborn—just like a thistle that refuses to die in a sidewalk crack. Basically, I’m convinced all great architects were just looking at plants and going ‘yeah, I’ll do that but in marble.’
Thistle #3: Violaceous vibes only. Borromini would definitely swipe right.
Thistle number four: cappuccino and watermelon colored petals (yes, that color combo is as weird as it sounds). Apparently it’s channeling Trevi Fountain vibes—you know, Rome’s most famous ‘throw money in the water and make wishes’ destination. It’s made from natural materials and definitely old, which means it’s had about 500 years to collect loose change and tourist dreams. Stand too close and you feel like you’re floating. Which is either the fountain’s magic or the overwhelming crowd of selfie sticks.
Thistle #4: Cappuccino + watermelon = chaos. Throw a coin in it anyway.
Thistle number five: fiery red, chocolate, and dark grapes (the color palette of a moody wine bar). It’s giving off major Castel Sant’Angelo energy—you know, that ancient Roman pedestrian bridge covered in Bernini’s Baroque sculptures. It’s stunning, it’s old, and like every tourist photo location in Rome, it’s probably swarming with people trying to get the perfect angle.
Thistle #5: Wine bar color palette. Bernini would’ve painted it too, but he was busy.
This is my final thistle post—the grand finale of my flower personality study. Here’s what I’ve learned: thistles are basically flowers with attitude problems. They represent strength, inflexibility, firmness, and they survive literally anywhere because they refuse to quit. Kind of like tourists in Rome during July. So I painted a whole series of these impossible little rebels to celebrate their survival skills and, oh yeah, they totally remind me of beautiful European architecture. Nature’s architecture is just better, fight me.
Rome: still standing after 2,000 years. Unlike my feet after day one.
All paintings belong to the author and are definitely not meant to be copied, traced, or vaguely ‘inspired by’—because yes, we’re watching you.
Bon voyage! Until the next travel adventure (and probably the next thistle obsession)! 🌍
Do you like flowers and their smell? Then your next vacation should be in France, my favorite country. Flowers are part of life everywhere, in cities, you probably won’t find houses that are not decorated with rose bushes and clematis that make a hedge.
Strasbourg said ‘hold my wine’ and posed for a painting.
And between the cities, endless blooming fields stretch, which not only delight the eye, but also generate income, since flowers are used in the production of essential oils.
Impressionist painting of orchid, the delicate and exotic at the same time.
An orchid walks into a gallery. Everyone stares. It’s used to it.
An integral part of the French cultural heritage, these gardens are open to the public throughout the country. All year round, they are ready to share their secrets, especially during moments of exceptional events.
Watercolour painting of unopened bud an orchid
Flowers being modest. Rare, honestly.
If you like castles in France, you will find lots of gardens and parks. One of my favorite is Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, a small private palace of the 17th century, located not far from Paris. Popular for its sophisticated architecture and large surrounding park.
Cherry blossoms: beautiful for 10 days, smug about it forever.
The gardens and parks were in perfect harmony with the architectural complexes from which they were laid out. Spacious alleys were lined with flower beds.
Castle: Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte
…and of course irises. Did you know that the depiction of a lily on heraldry in pre-revolutionary France is actually a stylised image of a yellow iris?
The iris — France’s national flower and certified drama queen.
For France, irises are not only beautiful flowers that are a symbol, they are also an industry. France is famous throughout the world for its perfumes and eau de parfum, and it is in them that iris essential oil is actively used to create aromatic compositions.
Bon voyage! Until the next travel.
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
Tools used for my painting. Watercolor brands Van Gogh and Cotman. Paper Canson Mix Media album 28×35 cm (11×14 in.) and Canson Watercolour album 25×35 cm (11 x 15 in.)
This was amazing little town with an unusual legend.
Just imaging, you are jauntily wandering through the medieval streets. Also trying not to trip over the cobblestones that probably date back to when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. Meanwhile, admiring the stone facades that looked like they had more stories than my grandma. Actually, this is my story that happens with everyone while traveling in a medieval town, right?:)
And then OMG, the flowers! They were so fragrant that I half expected them to start singing show tunes! It was truly an unexpected adventure in one of the prettiest settlements in France. The buildings are old, but the charm is timeless! :)
As promised, about the local legend. It says that the English Queen Victoria was riding on a donkey with her staff to the town. After this uneasy journey, she tired and ordered a road to be built to this tallest town. Thank you! the English Queen Victoria wanted everyone to see the beauties of this place. And it was completed, so now you can enjoy them too. The main square of the town is named after the Queen, with no doubt. Everybody loves this legend.
A charming watercolor sketch of Tourrettes-sur-Loup, showcasing the town’s vibrant ice cream and flower motifs characteristic of Provence.
Another Legend about Ice cream while you are exploring the town.
Ice cream transcends the realm of mere treats; it embodies the town’s most cherished secret. Yes, I found it while eating the violet rich ice cream.
As she dances around you, the air fills with the delightful aroma of freshly churned ice cream. It draws forth smiles and laughter from everyone nearby. A simple shout turns into a memorable experience that sugary dreams are made of! Even years later, I still remember this taste and scent.
As you walk around town, you will notice violets everywhere. They are painted on the asphalt and in the ice cream. Violet ice cream was a pleasant discovery for me. It’s worth coming to this mountainous town just for its sake!
The Wobbly Wonders of Cascades du Saut du Loup: Where Waterfalls Take a Dive!
The next stop was the stunning Mountain waterfalls known as Cascades du Saut du Loup. The name comes from the French language. It translates to the mouth of the wolf. I found it’s quite scary name.
This evokes an air of mystery and intrigue surrounding this natural wonder. As we approached the cascades, the sound of rushing water grew louder, filling the air with a sense of anticipation.
The scene was surrounded by lush greenery and rocky cliffs. It was breathtaking, with glistening water tumbling down the steep slopes. This created a mesmerizing spectacle. This hidden gem is more than just a beautiful sight. It holds an important place in local folklore. Tales of wolves and their enchanting habitat add to the allure of this captivating location. I think that every waterfalls has its own legends, do you agree with it?
I don’t know what mouth of a wolf it is. Now this is my secret. I personally saw a huge muzzle of an orangutan in the rocks. Everyone in our group was laughing from my imagination:)
Gourdon vs. Gordes:
As we continued our travel, the next stop was Gordon. It is the highest town of our trip. Its magnificent castle is perched 750 meters above sea level on rocks.
Watercolor sketch of Gourdon Castle in Provence, showcasing the lush landscapes of the region.
A little comment about the tour. Part of our goal for this trip was to see Provencal lavender fields. Our tour operator was also our driver and a cheerful guide.
Meanwhile, he piped up from the passenger seat, “Well, there’s a little hitch in our giddy-up!” Apparently, it would take another hour to reach the lavender fields from this town. Perfect! This was just enough time for him to regale her with his latest theory. He believed a goat named Jean-Claude should have been our co-pilot.
“Just think about it,” he said with a grin. “He’d be the best navigator. Frankly, I’d trust a goat over a GPS any day!” As they continued their winding journey, the fragrant scent of lavender teased their senses. It promised that the true adventure was only just beginning.
Gourdon and Gordes are two different cities. Ops, my bad, I did not see on this day any lavenders’ fields. So, please take my advice, enjoy your day , even you were expecting other views.
Both cities are nestled in the picturesque hills of Provence. Yet, they are distinct places rich in their own unique charm and character.
The tour company made a comical error. They mixed them up. This led to a day filled with unexpected adventures and humorous anecdotes. As the day unfolded, we constantly wondered how the mix-up could have happened. This curiosity gave us an amusing reason to return. We wanted to explore the beautiful regions more thoroughly.
It became our running joke throughout this long day. The joke lightened the mood and brought us closer together. This happened as we navigated the winding roads. We were diligently searching for the iconic lavender bushes. We were also looking for even small patches of planted lavender. Provence is so famous for this.
Every time we stumbled upon anything resembling those fragrant fields, we kept saying, “Well, here’s lavender!” We burst into laughter. What could have been an inconvenience turned into a delightful memory. It’s a memory that we’ll cherish for years to come.
The Lavender Showdown – Who Will Win the Name Game?
The locals told us that in earlier years the lavender fields really bloomed vibrantly around the town. This created a stunning visual spectacle. It attracted visitors from far and wide.
The intoxicating fragrance of the lavender filled the air, making it a beloved destination for tourists and locals alike. One unfortunate year, a particularly harsh cold winter struck. The lavender bushes not survive the frigid temperatures that followed. The once-thriving fields, which had been a source of pride and beauty for the community, fell silent and barren.
After that, despite the people’s longing for the return of the lavender, they were not planted again. This decision left a void in the landscape deeply felt by everyone. It’s truly a pity to witness such a loss of natural beauty and charm.
A watercolor sketch depicting the scenic beauty of Gourdon, France, showcasing its charming architecture and lavender foliage.
The mountain road is serpentine. It leads to mountain towns Gourdon and Tourrettes-sur-Loup. We passed through the medieval town. In the sky, we saw a cloud “goose”.
I will continue to post about one-day trips in Nice. Next up is Cannes and Le Cannet. I visited the famous museum of artist Bonnard. After all, who doesn’t want to admire the works of someone who painted like they were on a permanent vacation? More art, less sanity!
Tools used for my painting Watercolour used Charvin and Van Gogh brands, Derwent Watercolour pencils and Faber Castell artist pens. Paper Strathmore Watercolour and Mixed Media albums, 15×20 cm (6×8 in.)
A Sketching Journey Through Provence’s Artistic Towns. Urban sketching. Travel, Architecture and Art
Everything is in one bottle of flavor that brings together the image of a city or place.
Mougins: Where Art Galleries Outnumber Residents!
The next town we visited was Mougins, is a city of art galleries and artist’ workshops. On a small plaza, I saw a mysterious lady in a beautiful hat near the city’s legendary museum.
This is a serene sketch capturing a mysterious lady in a beautiful hat. It is set against the charming backdrop of Mougins. This town is known for its vibrant art scene.
The Art of Not Getting Bored at Mougins Museum!
The city has a famous Mougins Museum of Classical Art. It is a private museum. The entrance costs 14 Euros (2019). It’s worth it. Address: 32 Rue Commandeur, Mougins. The Mougins museum has the world’s largest private collection of antic helmets. I never would have thought that there was such a variety of helmets.
A watercolor sketch of ancient helmets displayed at the Mougins Museum of Classical Art.
In the museum, the lighting was dark so my sketches show the overall impressions of the gloom. I like to watch museums’ visitors; it shows the general impression of direction of exhibits in museum. We visited the museum on Monday when there were no visitors so the whole museum was ours. I was surprised to see such a rich collection outside the Louvre or British Museums.
One of my artistic goals is to paint the combination of houses, people, cafe, streets, landscapes, food, Provencal ice creams.
Watercolor sketch depicting the charm of Mougins, Côte d’Azur, showcasing a cafe scene and the essence of local artistry.
On the way to the city, our tour operator mentioned an interesting annual festival. It is called the ‘International Gastronomy Festival of Mougins’ or ‘Les Étoiles de Mougins’.
The festival used to be an event that brought lots of tourists and media attention to the town of Mougins.
Effective this year, the decision was made to hold the festival in other cities around the world. Mougins’ Michelin chefs will be sent to the festival to show the culinary art of the city’s chefs. So, understandably, the residents of the city are disappointed and would like to return the tourists to their city. To get here, you can take a train/bus from Antibes or Nice. At the end of this post, I will give instructions on how to get to this town.
Watercolor sketch depicting the charming scenery of Moulin d’Opio, showcasing olive trees and lanterns, reminiscent of Van Gogh’s art.
Moulin d’Opio mill, with its olive grove
Our next visit was a small place at Moulin d’Opio mill, with its olive grove and a small store. When you visit this place, you will instantly remember Van Gogh’s painting. The owners are the fifth generation of this family. They were telling us how olive oil has been produced for many centuries. We tested different varieties of olives, French oil, tapenade on toast, and drinks.
Watercolor sketch depicting a charming scene from Moulin d’Opio, highlighting the olive trees and quaint architecture of the area.
I would never have thought that I would try olive oil on its own. It was an interesting experiment.
A watercolor illustration depicting olive oil, olives, and a traditional Provencal setting, reflecting the culinary heritage of the region.A watercolor sketch depicting olive oil tasting and the scenic landscape of Le Moulin d’Opio in Côte d’Azur.
Tools used for my painting Watercolour used Charvin and Van Gogh brands, Derwent Watercolour pencils and Faber Castell artist pens. Paper Strathmore Watercolour and Mixed Media albums, 15×20 cm (6×8 in.)
Bon voyage! Until the next travel:)
You are welcome to visit my personal website pages. There, you can find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings. You can buy canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.
How to get from Antibes to Le Mougins. Take Train to Cannes, then bus to Mougins. Lines 25-27. Cannes – Ranguin <> Gare Routière des Messugues <> Collège Eganaude – Sophia Antipolis, par Mougins
How to get from Antibes to Le Cannet . Take train Antibes to Cannes, bus #1 and 4(?), 15 min =10 stops to Musee Bonnard, Bus Palm’Express n°1, arrêt « Mairie du Cannet
How to bring more joy to your vacation in the south of France
In this post I would like to talk about some one-day trips from Antibes or Nice. For me, sitting in one place and swimming in the sea is fine for a couple of days. I enjoy sunny beaches and cuisine, but then I need more. Provencal cities are very close to each other. They are rich in history, art, and architecture. It would be a “crime” not to visit some of the local small towns in the neighborhood.
Vibrant Provencal ceramic tableware showcasing the rich colors of handmade plates from the South of France.
Exploring Art and Cuisine in Provence’s Charming Towns. Nice, France, one-day trips in Provence.
Provencal ceramic tableware with sun-drenched harmony of Provence in single handmade plates with vibrant colors found in the South of France and Italy
Illustration of the beautiful towns and landmarks around Provence, highlighting key locations like Grasse, Gourdon, and Tourrettes-sur-Loup.
Our Provencal Itinerary. This trip began in Nice and continued through Grasse, Mougins, and Moulins d’Opio. We also explored Waterfalle sur Loup, Tourrettes du Loup, and Gourdon.
We always travel by train or bus… but this time we decided to save our time and traveled with a tour operator.
The recently renovated Gare de Nice Ville, a welcoming gateway to the beautiful city of Nice.
Vibrant Provencal Experiences: From Grasse to Nice. Blue train brings people to Mediterranean Sea every day
Old Train station in Nice was recently renovated. It seems to be inviting visitors to join one of the most beautiful cities. Nice is conveniently located near the sea.
Our tour started from Nice. You can be picked up from your hotel by the tour operator. In our case we lived in Antibes. As a choice, a driver pick you up from your city, with an extra cost. We decided to take a train from Antibes to Nice. The journey took just 10 -15 minutes. It cost 4 Euros. It was another reason to visit Nice.
Illustration of a train station in Nice, capturing the blend of modern transportation and picturesque surroundings.
Grasse, the capital of perfumery
The 1st stop was in Grasse, the capital of perfumery. According to the legend of the 17th century, the city had many leather shops. The skin was soaked with flower essences to remove an unpleasant odour. Louis XIII and his beautiful wife, Anna of Austria, shared valuable secrets.
She was a Spanish-born queen. Thanks to them, some Spanish and Arab techniques for perfumed skins were revealed. So perfumes came to us from the city of Grasse. You want to visit Parfumerie Fragonard.
Watercolor painting depicting the vibrant atmosphere of a Provencal town, capturing colorful rooftops and the scenic beauty of the region.
The whole city is covered in flowers; a local perfume factory acquaints visitors with its spirits. During our last visit to Grasse several years ago, we walked several times through the local central square. We admired the views of the mountains from a huge cliff near the town hall.
It was blooming with floral aromas, the local fountain freshened the air with water. And only then I realized that the fountain was spraying perfumed water.
Perfume factory in Grasse
Sketch of our excursions perfume factory and olive store at Le Moulin D’Opio, Opio. Legendary Fragonard was the mayor of the city. The city has the Fragonard Museum is located at: 14 rue Jean Ossola, Hotel de Villeneuve, Grasse
This watercolor sketch depicts the perfume factory and olive store at Le Moulin d’Opio in Grasse, France. It showcases vibrant colors and local products.
Some interesting facts about Fragonard: he was the artist and pioneer of the Rococo style. There is a famous painting “The Swing” by Jean-Honoré Fragonard. Fragonard was a distant relative of my beloved impressionist artist Bertha Morisot. We visited museum D’Orsay in Paris this year, Morisot’s personal exhibition in the museum. Stay tuned for more information on it in my future posts.
More intriguing tales and delightful doodles are on their way—consider this your friendly heads-up before the next artistic adventure hits!
Tools used for my painting Watercolour used Charvin and Van Gogh brands, Derwent Watercolour pencils and Faber Castell artist pens. Paper Strathmore Watercolour and Mixed Media albums, 15×20 cm (6×8 in.)
Bon voyage! Until the next travel:)
You are welcome to visit my personal website pages. There, you can find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings. You can buy canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.
How to get from Antibes to Le Mougins. Take Train to Cannes, then bus to Mougins. Lines 25-27. Cannes – Ranguin <> Gare Routière des Messugues <> Collège Eganaude – Sophia Antipolis, par Mougins
How to get from Antibes to Le Cannet . Take train Antibes to Cannes, bus #1 and 4(?), 15 min =10 stops to Musee Bonnard, Bus Palm’Express n°1, arrêt « Mairie du Cannet
Urban sketching and Still life. Travel and Art. Urban Sketching: Exploring Parisian Life Through Art
Paris is simply an amazing place for artists and photographs. This is especially true in spring, summer, and early autumn. During these seasons, the splendor of countless flower beds and shrubs is wrapped in luxurious blossoms of amazing flowers.
A cozy watercolor sketch of a vase with flowers and a scenic window view, capturing the essence of Parisian life.
The way Parisians buy them in many stores and Sunday markets, sell and grow at home is worth of imitation:)
I bought viola tricolor, one of my favorite flowers. I did the paintings in this post in our Parisian hotel’s room.
Watercolor painting of a charming flower shop in Paris, showcasing vibrant blooms and an inviting street scene.
Did you know that in Roman mythology, the ancient gods turned men into violas? These violas secretly spied on the bathing goddess of love – Venus:)
Watercolor painting of viola tricolor, capturing the delicate beauty of spring flowers.
Parisians often spend leisure time, sitting down on benches with a bottle of water, a baguette, a book or just a cigarette to take a little breath, relax after a working day or bask in the sun, going to market and flower stories and bringing these little beauties in their rooms to continue getting a feeling of being in touch with the wonderful:)
A watercolor painting of a glass vase holding viola tricolor flowers, showcasing vibrant colors and artistic flair.
Bon voyage! Until the next travel:) Stay healthy.
Tools used for my painting. Watercolour brands Van Gogh and Cotman. Paper Canson Mix Media album 28×35 cm (11×14 in.) and Canson Watercolour album 25×35 cm (11 x15 in.)
You can visit my personal website pages here. Find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings. You can also buy canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
Urban sketching and Still life. Travel and Art. A Colorful Journey Through Paris: Art and Nature Blended
Flowers
Paris is always the city in flowers. This city breathes in the scents of billions of flowers. Every day it explodes with a firework of floral colors. Winter, or summer, the season does not matter for flowers in Paris. The Luxembourg Gardens is the most “French” of all city parks.
A vibrant watercolor painting of blooming flowers in a rustic setting, showcasing the beauty of nature intertwined with artistry.
Only here can you see the true purpose of the green towns in Paris. You can watch how Parisians spend their free time… If you would like to become one of them, you try their …Vivre la vie:)
City parks
Go to one of the city parks. You sit comfortably on a chair near the fountain. Breathe in the aroma of roses and enjoy the freshness of greenery. Hide from the city center, which is so distant yet immeasurably close from one side.
This watercolor depicts the picturesque Luxembourg Gardens in Paris. It showcases serene landscapes. Visitors enjoy the park’s beauty.
Bright flower borders with soft ribbons frame the green lawns, and flowerbeds amaze with volumes and colors. Petunias, daisies, rudbeckia, sage, cereals, dahlias, chrys…it is the long list of flowers. Their consistent and continuous flowering pleases grateful spectators throughout the entire spring, summer and autumn seasons.
Luxembourg gardens
Luxembourg gardens in Paris is my favorite one, flower beds are especially good at any season. It’s impossible to stop looking at them! I am enjoying to visit again and again:) you see my post about Luxembourg gardens.
A cozy watercolor painting featuring a vase of flowers on a wooden table, alongside a red polka-dotted chair.
Bon voyage! Until the next travel:) Stay healthy.
You can visit my personal website pages here. Find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings. Buy canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.
Tools used for my painting. Watercolour brands Van Gogh and Cotman. Paper Canson Mix Media album 28×35 cm (11×14 in.) and Canson Watercolour album 25×35 cm (11 x15 in.)
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
For this I was doing an ink drawing of Splat water, with splashes of water that flow down from a long green leaf. I already miss summer days:) A person can forever look at three things: how the fire burns,how the other person works and how the water flows…
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Connect.
For my artist colleagues. Workshops. Holidays spirit for creative community. I continue my journey with watercolor clausura technique. What I am thinking that in the realm of imagination, anything is possible. Let your creativity soar :)
What comes to mind when you hear the word “clausura”? It might be a sense of mystery, seclusion, and tranquility. But did you know that this word holds a deeper and more intriguing meaning than meets the eye?
When I learn the technique watercolor clausura, I decided to check it out what does it mean:)
It is the world of medieval castles and abbey architecture:)
Let’s delve together into the encyclopedic interpretation of the word “clause.”
It shows a sketch, a blueprint of an idea, akin to the original plan for solving an architectural problem.. or an artist’s inspiration. Furthermore, the notion of a “clause” as a sketch or plan ties into the architectural aspect of “clausura.” But how does this connect to its origins in Latin and Italian? Apparently the term “clause” can be traced back to the Latin word “clausere,” meaning “lock,”. Also it is the Italian “klouso,” which denotes “castle.” Wow!
Okay, it is time to play with watercolor paint. We imagine ourselves as some inhabitants of a monastery. Just as an architect envisions and designs a structure somewhere in a medieval time. It is like a lock securing a treasure or a castle providing refuge…
Before and After. Saxophonist in a city. The image shows a side-by-side comparison of a watercolor painting’s transformation. It highlights the creative process from abstract to detailed representation. A side-by-side comparison presents the transformation of a watercolor painting of a saxophonist. It highlights the creative process from abstract to detailed representation.
What do you see?:)In my imagination it is a city musician:)
This is one of my creative process of a street musician. My brushes were painting some colored blots by themselves. I was listening to my favorite music while sitting in a balcony and enjoying a lovely summer sunset.
Don’t just *see* the watercolor blot; *feel* it. What emotions does it evoke? Let those feelings fuel your next masterpiece, whether it’s a painting, poem, or song.
For this painting I was lost in the rhythm of the city. This watercolor painting captures the soulful sounds of a gray-haired saxophonist. It was painted using the *clausura* technique for a unique, textured feel.
Watercolor painting of a saxophonist, capturing the essence of a street musician’s soulful performance.
After. Saxophonist in a city. Watercolor painting of a gray-haired saxophonist, capturing the soulful spirit of street music against the backdrop of a city sunset.
Capturing the soulful spirit of a seasoned musician. I saw a real-life saxophonist silhouetted against a city sunset once. His music painted its own story in the air. The gray in his hair, the vibrant colors of the city, the golden hues of the setting sun… it all came together in this piece.
The magic of the holidays is in the making! Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure
You are welcome to visit my personal website pages. There, you can find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings. You can buy canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
“I love the way the Greeks have squeezed so much out of everything they have: oil from olive, wine from the grape, ouzo from ouzo is made from-I don’t know and I don’t care; I’ll drink it-feta cheese from sheep’s milk and salt, mosaic from pebbles, temples from stone.”
Mary Norris “Greek to me”
Exploring the Hill of Muses, ancient ruins
Let’s start a new story about Athens, its fair tale place in the ancient city. Philopappou Hill or Hill of the Muses is the forested hilltop with full view of the Parthenon.
Here artists and poets are drawing the inspiration and creativity while watching the Acropolis. Its marble seems soft pink in the setting sun. I called it the romantic and nature Atelier in the ancient city.
Would you like a cup of coffee while reading my story?:) As Greek saying about coffee: it is a way of Life.
Athens’ morning – Coffee in Greece: A Way Of Life
The Hill is close to the famous Monastiraki neighbourhood and Acropolis, has convenient location in the city and easy to walk for enjoyable atmosphere.
Like Greeks, I was ready to absorb everything the Hill of Muses is providing: the view of the Acropolis, the sunset behind the ancient city, the smell of olive trees that are growing all over the hill, the red poppies and the stones of ancient monuments and many narrow paths leading up to top’s hill of Muses where is located the monument of Prince Philopappo.
The Hill has even Prison of Socrates and ancient ruins on of the classical 5th century BC Themistoclean Wall.
Why the Hill’s second name Hill of Muses or Nymphs?
Apparently, the hill is also known as Hill of the Muses because it is believed to have been a place where the ancient Greeks worshipped the nine Muses, the goddesses of the arts and sciences. Voila!
Before a trip to Greece, I have read Theoi Project, the website exploring Greek mythology and the gods in classical literature and art. I definitely recommend this website to anyone who is interested in legends, its link is included in the post.
The Hill in spring is full of poppies, beautiful, bright and tender. Hmm… interesting thought. How can the hill of Muses whose mother was Mnemosyne, the titan goddess of Memory and Remembrance, be strewn with poppies, flowers of oblivion? :)
View of Parthenon with poppies
The nine muses from Greek mythology are patrons of the creativity. They are inspiring all sorts of discoveries and creations, from science to drama. Inspiration is something mystical, intangible, encompassing an actor, a writer, an inventor, and a scientist.
The muses give us the chosen ones new impulses and aspirations, the pangs of creativity and love, recognition and celebrity, sometimes purely and disinterestedly, and sometimes at the cost of sacrifice and complete giving up of important things. I immersed in the captivating world of metamorphosis as Zeus and Mnemosyne with their daughters from Athens’ sky and clouds.
Sky metamorphose. Zeus and Mnemosyne with daughters Muses
The Muses were the goddesses of music, song and dance, and the source of inspiration to poets. They were also goddesses of knowledge, who remembered all things that had come to pass. Later the Muses were assigned specific artistic spheres: Kalliope (Calliope), epic poetry; Kleio (Clio), history; Ourania (Urania), astronomy; Thaleia (Thalia), comedy; Melpomene, tragedy; Polymnia (Polyhymnia), religious hymns; Erato, erotic poetry; Euterpe, lyric poetry; and Terpsikhore (Terpsichore), choral song and dance.
I have only one question Why there is no Muse for the artists?:)
I created this series of Muses in Athens, thanks to the city’s inspiration and particularly Hill of Muses:)
Mnemosyne and Zeus’ nine daughters, I sketched it from Mosaic depicting the nine muses from Augusta Treverorum, colossal mosaic, a breathtaking epitome of artistic excellence, epitomizes the enchanting power of the nine muses.
There is the grace and allure of each muse.
Greek Culinary Delights
My family was visiting the Hill of Muses several times during our trip. We were feeling relaxed after busy days, it gave us inspiration and delight to our eyes, smell, even tactility:) I touched olives, poppies, the first spring green leaves of olive trees, listened to the sounds of birds and enjoyed white wine and the desserts in the restaurant Dionysos Zonar’s, its link will be provided is this post.
Do you know if you can eat olives directly from the trees? I even picked one olive from the tree, it was very hard with bitter taste:) Apparently, to obtain a delicious snack, olives and olives are soaked for a long time and then salted or pickled. It should be done in September not in spring time but it was a funny experiment:)
Talking about traditional Greek culinary, I love poppy seeds for their distinctive flavor and simply irresistible crunch.
From my childhood I remember enjoying the baked goods with poppy seeds in the mix my mom used to cook. My favourite one was the old world poppy seed rolls…
My advice to anyone visiting or living in Athens, just let you to be reach the beauty and artistry of the Hill of Muses, imagine yourself in the company with these mystical creations. Maybe the muses will guide your own creativity and unlimited inspiration.
What are your experiences or thoughts about the Hill of Muses?:)
Bon voyage! Until the next travel:) Stay healthy.
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
Tools used for my painting. Watercolour brands Van Gogh and Cotman. Paper Canson Mix Media album 28×35 cm (11×14 in.) and Canson Watercolour album 25×35 cm (11 x15 in.)
“The Benaki is Museum in Athens, one of the best museums in Greece, the Alexandrian Greek Antonis Benakis, who donated his building and his family’s house to the state…Anyone who loves language loves the alphabet… Instead of apples and bananas and cats, the book’s illustrations are pieces from the collection of the Benaki; alpha is for airplane (αεροπλάνο ), beta is for book (βιβλίο), gamma is for gorgon (γοργόνα).”
I am going to share my first impression from the ancient city Athens with you in this post. It has been in the back drawer for more than a year, but now is the time! Even if you are not going to Greece, read it over coffee – it gives you the feeling that you are walking along the pavements of an ancient city.
The Benaki museum is one of interesting places in Athens Kerameikos neighbourhood, I suggest going for their cafe on the terrace to enjoy the view while sipping the Greek coffee: and enjoy the classical falafel with peppermint as species.
It was so unusual and unexpected that our first thing to do in Athens was the Benaki museum vs. Acropolis or others #1 from the recommended lists for travellers. I have read about Benaki museum in the book “Greek to me” by Mary Norris. And Benaki Museum appears one of my favourite museum of Greek culture.
From the rich collection of Prehistoric, Ancient Green and Roman, one of the museum’s statue that impressed me was Eros and Psyche, and the myth telling about about truly love. The bone plaque with a relief representation that repeats the Hellenistic combination of Eros and Psyche was one of my highlight for that day. The myths of ancient Greece have inspired countless artists over the centuries. From Renaissance artists to modern filmmakers, Psyche and Eros (or “Cupid”) have served as sources of inspiration and have been represented in many great and sometimes lesser works of art in many variations. My art is about metamorphosis of sky and clouds on that sunny day that transformed to Psyche and Eros:)
The Legend of Psyche and Eros is a touching love story gifted to the world by the rich Greek mythology.
Athens has everything I enjoy in my life – top level museums, homemade great food with aroma species, ancient statues and architecture, rich music concerts, some luxury, shopping, a young street life and lovely musical language of Ellada.
Spring in Athens is so beautiful! Especially if you equip yourself with the right guide and know where to watch the sunset, where to drink wine and what museums not to miss and where to go in the area.
” With it rank upon rank of icons and its collections of sculpture, pottery, jewelry, silver – from the archaic to the modern -the Benaki is a world-class museum
“Greek to me” by Mary Norris
Bon voyage! Until the next travel:) Stay healthy.
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
“I love to fly, especially this moment, The plane is getting ready, charging runway, the engine is screaming, the pressure is rising, you’re back in the seat and you are in air – Everything is behind you.”
Kevin Kline and Meg Ryan, chat in the Take off scene in the movie French kiss
Why do people love travelling, airports, and obsessively planning their next vacation months in advance? Because deep down, everyone wants an educational cultural journey packed with art, architecture, fresh air, and a whole collection of brand-new emotions—plus the minor detail of escaping their everyday problems and pretending life admin doesn’t exist for a while.
The moment you arrive at the airport, you’re no longer fully in your home country, but you’re not in the next one yet either—you’re floating in that magical limbo called “duty-free territory,” where time, money, and calories don’t really count. The air buzzes with a wild cocktail of cultures, customs, and nationalities, all politely trying to figure out how boarding groups work.
On the road or at any airport—especially during international flights—the unspoken rule is that you’re allowed to talk to your temporary neighbours as if you’ve known them for years, then never see them again. One minute you’re discussing life goals with a stranger; the next, you’re both pretending not to know each other at baggage claim.
Airport services make this whole experience dangerously convenient. You can order your favourite food right to your gate while you chat with people from all over the world, or you can go full introspective artist and enjoy some quiet time painting—a view of the gate, for instance, or the runway outside the window—carefully sketching it all in your travel book like a wandering creative genius between flights.
This time, I set my sights on Greece—because if you’re going to get lost, it might as well be among ruins and beaches. I made a very ambitious list of places to visit and, naturally, we ended up saving most of them for “next time” and, let’s be honest, probably for the rest of our lives :)
Five senses – touch, smell, sight, hearing and taste lead us to knowledge of the country, its customs, people, cuisine and us. This is why I love travel and art.
Touch flowers and their velvet petals
Smell coffee and paint it in any location, urban and museums’ cafes using my customized coffee palette
Sight. Enjoy Athens and other places’ architecture, blue sea and sky as combination of Ellada’s beauty. Only in Greece, when I am looking at the sky and clouds, I imagine ancient Greek myths and their gods’ adventures…and you?:)
Hearing. Listen to music of Yanni instrumental music, the pianist, composer and one of the kindest musician in the world, enjoying the voice of Maria Callas’ in Tosca, the unique and intriguing Butterfly and of course the Traviata epic, one of the great modern sopranos Helena Paparizou and … Athens’ cats, loved and adored by locals and tourists, saying (or singing) majuu when you are passing by:)
Taste. Enjoy traditional bread and Greek food with aroma of Mediterranean spices.
Usually I am doing artistic warm up exercise at home, foretasting new feelings of smell, taste, hearing, sight and touch while preparing my palette and tools that will be my partners in the journey. For my Greek trip I prepared customized Ellada palette, with specific blue colours for sky and sea, ochre and sienna for tender colours of columns, for spring flowers I added some reds, pink and violets and…special palette for coffee:) Yep coffee in Greece is the mysterious action.
Looking forward to new exciting days of Art and Travel club in Greece!
#creating goodmood paintings
Bon voyage! Until the next travel:)
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
Tools used for my painting. Watercolour brands Van Gogh and Cotman. Paper Canson Mix Media album 28×35 cm (11×14 in.) and Canson Watercolour album 25×35 cm (11 x 15 in.)
Psst! I’m smelling spring in the air (and it smells nothing like pollen allergies, thank goodness for my imagination). It’s coming, and honestly, it can’t come fast enough. Ready for a whirlwind tour? We’re starting in the charming city of Arles, France, where people dress better than me just going to the grocery store. Then we’ll zoom over to the dramatic cliffs near Victoria in Canada (bring vertigo medication!), and finish with the impossibly picturesque little town of Eze near Monaco. Plus, some artworks I’ve randomly created throughout the year because apparently I can’t pick a season and stick with it. Spring is almost here—hooray!
Legend has it that the gods, taking pity on sunflower-deprived humans, created sunflowers so we’d never be without the sun. Because apparently the actual sun wasn’t enough. These botanical mood rings literally follow the sun around all day—rain, shine, or when you’re too tired to get out of bed. No wonder sunflowers symbolize joy, loyalty, and optimism. If only we humans could be as dedicated. Also, dignity. Yes, dignity. Sunflowers are very dignified about their sun-chasing lifestyle.
During my pilgrimage to the glorious (and admittedly a bit overrated but still gorgeous) town of Arles in Provence, I threw myself into painting a sunflower bouquet in a vase with Van Gogh’s spirit channeled through my paintbrush. I even added a glass with artist brushes nearby because nothing says “I’m a serious artist” like surrounding yourself with your painting tools in an artfully chaotic way.
Van Gogh called. He wants his flowers back.
There are actually many undiscovered places where flowers bloom in weird and wonderful landscapes. This painting showcases stunning tulips perched precariously above a cliff overlooking the Pacific Ocean on Vancouver Island. Yes, these flowers are living their best lives on a literal edge. No pressure, though.
Fun fact: The tulip’s name comes from the Persian word for “turban,” which means someone somewhere thought these flowers looked like hats. And honestly? I see it. Each color means something too—red tulips scream “I love you”, while I imagine yellow tulips whisper “I love you but like, casually.”
Tulips living dangerously. No safety net. No regrets.
Personally? Tulips are my spirit flower. They symbolize spring, fresh starts, freedom, and that inexplicable joy you feel when you don’t have to wear seventeen layers of clothing anymore. Pure happiness in flower form.
Orange and violet tulips: nature showing off again.
Now, what about painting cacti perched above the Mediterranean Sea alongside gorgeous stone women statues? (Asking for a friend… who is me.)
Cacti, sea views, stone ladies. Basically a dream vacation.
#VanGogh (or as I like to call it, “Channeling My Inner Van Gogh”) paper—specifically The National Gallery watercolour paper album, which I highly recommend if you also want to pretend you’re as talented as a tortured genius. It’s basically bottled confidence. For more of my chaotic artistic musings, check the link in my bio. Bon voyage! Until the next travel adventure!
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
The tools of my trade (because adulting means having hobbies that require specific, expensive supplies): Watercolour brands Van Gogh and Cotman. Paper: Canson Mix Media album 28×35 cm (11×14 in.) and Canson Watercolour album 25×35 cm (11 x 15 in.). Yes, I’m fancy about my paper. Yes, it matters.
For Inktober prompt Slitcher I did an ink drawing of ice skaters. This joy that you experience from sliding … fast and not very … Lightness, smiles!Beautiful lighting, music and a huge amount of endorphins – hormones of happiness – are released into your body and you are full of optimism and joy:)
How long have you been skating? Last winter? Or many years ago, as a child? Cutting through the air, rushing on skates is fun that charges us with positive and makes us feel so fast and light:)
I am looking forward for skating here, in Toronto this winter!:)
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Risk.
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
You can visit my personal website pages here and find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings; purchase canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.
My favourite art store in Toronto Deserres, Spadina Ave
For prompt Patch I am doing a wax seal stamp on an old envelope. Why envelopes with a wax seal stamp are full of romance?:)This is what exudes antiquity, palace coups, conspiracies and secrets. These are love letters, secret messages that were not supposed to be read by those to whom they were not intended. All envelopes were sealed with a wax seal by that time. It was the “password” on the mailbox for many centuries, which could only be cracked by skilled hands:) The antic cybersecurity was committing to protect their private secters…
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Slither.
You can visit my personal website pages here and find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings; purchase canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
Ink drawing of spark on red embers. Barbeque might just be the most delicious food on the planet. We did it this fall in Bruce Peninsula in Ontario, Canada. Most people like to watch the flame cover, sparks gleam, firewood crackles and yammy barbeque will warm up you on a cold evening.
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
You can visit my personal website pages here and find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings; purchase canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.
I did some kind of surrealistic and impressionist ink drawing for prompt CONNECTion in between past, current and future worlds. The painting shows an imaginary door with floral plume of daisy petals that leads into another world, a parallel reality of times past. A curious mind will always find a path, a door, a way to explore others worlds.
How was it to live in previous centuries? And what will our future look like? And where is that DOOR that lets us peek into the other realities? These are among many questions one could ask in a question of finding interesting answers.
“The most beautiful things we can experience is the mysterious” Albert Einstein.
A link to my original painting is below.
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Spark.
I am doing an ink drawing of opposite meaning of extinct:) There is active and non -Extinct, long-dormant volcano of Vesuvius with the foreground of city Pompeii. Today, Mount Vesuvius is the only volcano on the European mainland. Mount Vesuvius eruption, which covered the nearly-restored city with blanket of ash and lava in 79 AD.
I would like to go back to this city with background of formidable and majestic volcano in Pompeii.
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Splat.
For the prompt Leak I did some sort of philosophical drawing of “leakage” of flowing time out of a wood watch. It is surrealistic ink drawing of hour and minute hands of watch that are “tightened” with a scotch tape. The idea came to me when we visited Dalí Theatre-Museum Figueres in Spain. Dali’s painting The Persistence of Memory is one of the my favorite work of Surrealism. Live in the moment:)
Realize deeply that the present moment is all you have. Make the NOW the primary focus of your life. Eckhart Tolle, The Power of Now: A Guide
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Extinct.
You are welcome to visit my personal website pages. There, you can find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings. You can buy canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
For prompt Open I am doing an ink drawing of an Open window to the city of Rome with the Colosseum as background. A white dove sitting on a balcony and enjoying the Eternal city. Scientists believe space travel is possible. You just need a portal, for example a window…voilà and you are in Rome or Paris or another your dream place:) My Yales’ course the Roman Archtecture is helping imagine it:)
For the prompt Fuzzy I imagined a foggy morning, forest glade with some summer flowers, everything is a little bit sleepy and fuzzy… You might get lost in the fog and find yourself in a mysterious world, where different amazing creatures live:)
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Open.
I was doing an ink drawing of a little sprout I saw once in Rome. A small green bud made its way between the big and heavy stones in the ancient pavement.
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Fuzzy.
For the prompt Loop I am doing an ank drawing of my interwined headphones:) How they can get so tangled in loops and knots when although they lie peacefully in my bag:)
Do you know a joke about Bluetooth? – You will only know that your phone was picked up by a pickpocket when the bus leaves the stop … haha, still like my headphones beside their “loops”:)
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Sprout
Do you like warm summer evenings when the moon starts to light up? It gives fresh, romantic and cozy look. A lunar path appears on the water surface, lighting up the landscape with its warm brilliance.
The link to my original oil painting Lunar track on the southern night is below
The next Inktober prompt is Compass. I am doing an ink drawing of compass we used to have at home, I was playing with it when I was a kid. From my childhood’s memory, it was a piece of art, nice to touch with a cover with a velvet cushion. It was a classical compass, my dad was explaining how to use it, it was the masterpiece… What a pity that now we do not use a compass, everything is built into our smartphones:)
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Collide
My next Inktober ink drawing is about a Helmet, part of Armoury museum in Mougins, France. It has the huge collection of ancient helmets. Soldiers lived, fought, and died in this equipment, and much of it bears the scars of battle from ancient military campaigns in past.
Next Inktober prompt is Pick. I did an ink drawing of Greek papyrus with TO DO tick mark for the travel bucket list:) It is my last year’s failed trip because of the pandemia and a planned trip in the future to the Greece, one of the most amazing and unique in its beauty countries in Europe. Travel Checkmark list is helpful for all travellers who is in love with history, architecture and voyage, ticks will help do not to miss anything and remember everything, have experience as many emotions as possible, so that there is something to dream about the next trip!:)
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Helmet.
Next Inktober prompt is Roof. For this prompt I have some ideas, thank you to my husband’s photos of many places we visited:) I will add a link to his site.
Firstly, it is the Roof of beautiful Milan’s Cathedral with its graceful spiers and pointed turrets that are directed into the sky, and slightly pinkish marble walls are decorated with many sculptural images. Secondly, an ink drawing of extraordinary roofs in Provence, south of France. The warm and cozy brown, orange and yellowish shades of roofs with background of the blue water of the Mediterranean Sea are one of my coming art project:) Another option, the “roof” of yellow and red colours leaves’ trees in any Ontario places in Canada. The trees’ brushes are like ceillings for roads when you drive or walk. This nature “roof” looks the same in Canada and in my motherland Belarus or any place in Earth. And next idea brings me to the “decision” for this prompt that includes both Roof and Autumn, 2 in 1!:)
For the prompt Roof I am doing an ink drawing of lovely roofs of the pastoral town Rottenburg ob der Tauber in Germany we stayed once in the fall. Here, you can enjoy viewing of the little houses’ roofs with background of golden trees’ leaves that nature itself painted land in the Northen Bavaria. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is the place …its like you are in an alternative universe or you have gone back in time:)
This is the site with images belong to and can be purchased from Vlad Vitsenkou
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Pick
I am doing an ink drawing of one of fascinating sculptute in Paris. It is completed after the book “The man who passed through walls”/”Le passer muraille” by Marcel Aymé. It tells of the adventures of a “little” person in a ministry who realized that he can walk through walls:). He became a powerful man, what happened next? One day, the man was stuck in the wall… The sculpture’s figure coming out from a high wall, looks very intriguing… I recommend to read this book and visit the Place Marcel-Aymé in Monmartre’s Paris when you travel to Paris next time:)
For prompt Sour I am doing an ink drawing of one mythical creature Leshy from slavic mythology. It is very popular character in Belarusian fairy tales that I remember from my childhood. “The Witcher” has many bad sour and tempered faces, like the forest itself. In all fairy tales Leshy is the forest’s owner, this is his house and all the animals are his wards. Leshy jokes over people, leads them into the thicket, frightens, leads astray, makes noise, whistles, claps his hands. Sometimes in fairy tales, the Leshy is nice character who helps those who get lost out of the forest, protects the heroes from wolves and bears:)
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Stuck.
My interpretation of this world for my Inktober 2022 is “choose something from a number of alternatives, typically after careful thought.” Well, I am chosing an ink drawing of … French charcuterie:)
French cuisine is not a collection of dishes, but a ceremonial, a feast is a moment of communication,it is a part of French culture. When people have lunch or dinner together, they share it with each other. The food we eat matters not only for the body, but also for the mind. I pick ballotines, pâtés, and confit, wine, a cheese,ham a baguette, as the maginicifient French charcuterie.
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Sour.
A rainy Saturday afternoon encouraged me to draw some sort of social ink drawing for Inktober 2021. Pressure and manipulation of public opinion to a person, pressure from a city, pressure from the employer…And it would be great to break the “fetters” from a manipulator and manage your life by yourself:)
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Pick.
For prompt Watch I was doing ink drawing of the interior clock of the D’Orsay museum in Paris. The clock is in between the museum building and sky, it looks out over the river Seine and garden Jardin des Tuileries. Looking through the clock, you can enjoy the magificient capital of France.
At first the Musée d’Orsay was a train station, the Gare d’Orsay built for the Universal Exposition of 1900. The clock is actually a reminder from the train station that overlooked the platforms of the rail station a century ago.
I love the D’Orsay clock because they’re so large, they also function as a window. How many important and romantic meetings have taken place under this clock, who knows?:)
For prompt Fan I was doing ink drawing of my fan that we bought during our European traveling in Barcelona in Poble Espanyol – Spanish village. There are so many artistic and elegant souvenirs in this place:) I do recommend shopping here…
Fan, in addition to the obvious usage to create a stream of air around the face, neck and shoulders when it’s hot, is also used to be the art of flirting.
So, if a lady touched her lips and heart with an open fan, she would say: “You are my ideal.” If she applied the fan with her right hand to her left cheek, then, alas, she made it clear that courtship was useless. It used be a real fan language that allowed a woman to conduct a love affair without resorting to words and letters that could expose her:)
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Watch.
For prompt Spirit I was doing ink drawing of a spiritual Dream Catcher with background of the Grand Canyon in USA. A dream catcher is a symbol of armor and protection among numerous indigenous cultures and tribes. It’s a handmade willow hoop woven to a web or literally, a net with feathers.
The dream catcher is a talisman that is ptotecting people from bad dreams. The Canadian and American aboriginal cultures believe that both good and bad dreams fill the air at night.
Someone said that Soulmates cherish each other’s feelings and believe in each other’s dreams. Cool, isn’t it?:)
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Fan.
For prompt Raven I was doing ink drawing of a raven sitting on a street lamp next to the Louvre museum in Paris.
It was an old and wise raven who was looking down on all the tourists queuing up at the museum. Perhaps this bird remembers events that happened in France 300 years ago, who knows?:)
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Spirit.
For this prompt I was doing a drawing with trees’ roots intertwined into knots in this enchanted forest. We visited Jones waterfall on Ontario, Canada and were impressed by it by view of these trees’ “knots”…
There is a raging and rumbling waterfall right in the forest. Well.. it was a combination of a scary fair tale’s feelings to overlook many huge intertwined roots in knots of gigantic trees on the edge of the abyss and at the same time a magic view of the waterfall.. I do recommend to visit this place to everyone:)
I added a little bit burnt sienna and peat brown ink for adding some autumn’s atmosphere for my drawing.
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Raven
For my drawings and painting I usually need a story or memory behind it. For prompt Vessel I had some sort of dilemma:)
My 1st option was to do a drawing from life a part of Toronto’s street sculpture with only sinking vessel’s stern is viewable for pedestrians. Yes, it was a good option for ink drawing but it would be a little bit sad one for Inktober…
The 2nd option was a boat that is peacefully swaying on the waves. I used to love watching a boat in Frejus, French riviera during our vacation in France. It would be a good option with a summer vessel’s drawing.
The third option was a gondola with beautiful boats on the Venetian festival Regata Storica. There are many bright colourful vessels with people in elegant historical costumes during competition on Grand Chanal.
Well.. a “story” from Toronto’s street sculpture or a boat from summer vacation in France or Italian festival’s boats? I chose the fall’s festival with some vessels:) My husband’s photo would be the reference for my drawing. I definitely started to receive fun in the game of Inktober!:)
Hope that I convey the atmosphere of magical days when the weather is still warm and cozy, lots of locals and tourists are gathering to enjoy the Venetian competition between teams in beautiful colourful vessels with background of Venetian architecture. The historical festival is giving an additional feeling for the city, a unique and exciting way to get in touch with the spirit of this ancient city and one of its best known traditions: Venetian rowing.
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Knot.
Suit is very important part of appearance of any person, it is showing the epoch when a person lived, their gender, society status, etc.
Well, my favorite 19 century and the city of Paris as a place will be my story’s drawing.
I need a time machine to go there and to do my drawing from their real life’s elegent suits, frock coats and cylinders for men and wearing long flowing dresses with high collars and puffed sleeves, skirts with layer upon layer of lace for women.
…It was an iconic era for France and fashion . Yes, France is famous for is fashion forever:)
For this drawing I chose using ink and Fabel Castell markers to add some vintage atmosphere.
And I am ready for tomorrow’s Inktober prompt – Vessel.
Visiting ancient Pompeii is like traveling back in time. It is a ghost town near city of Naples the Mediterranean sea. You are immediately transported to 79 AD as you walk along the streets of the ancient city, enter houses, feeling the era and the tragedy of that time.
I was painting Pompeii’s Temple of Jupiter with the background of the long-dormant volcano of Vesuvius. It was a small resort town in the 1st century BC. In 62 AD, the earthquake struck, and the city of Pompeii was shaken to the foundation, followed by 17 years of hard work to bring it back to life, only to be followed by the Mount Vesuvius eruption, which covered the nearly-restored city with a blanket of ash and lava in 79 AD.
Interestingly enough, the history of Pompeii is much longer than the Roman Pompeii. It was founded in 8 century BC during the Iron Age. It was overseen by an italic tribe called Oscans, then Samnite. For the next 1.5 century, the construction of most buildings in Pompeii had also begun and the city had well established villas. During this period, there was a very high civilization which included trade with Greek cities, among them Neapolis (Naples). The city fell to Rome in 89 BC and became a Roman colony in 80 BC. Samnite’s property was confiscated by the Roman veterans that settled here. And a new page of history began… My family visited Pompeii several years ago with the Trafalgar tour and loved the well preserved city- museum under the sky.
Painting – Pompeii, background Mount Vesuvius, Roman Architecture
Year of construction- 8 century
Address: Pompeii
Tools used for my painting Watercolour Cotman madler red, Charvin bleu royal, Albert Durer and Faber Castell watercolour pencils. Paper National Gallery watercolour album, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.)
The magic of the holidays is in the making! Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
The massive site spans a mountainside, built with Roman cement and remains a rare example of an intact pagan temple complex. Developing in Roman architecture later in Trajan Forum in the 2nd century AD would not be possible without experimentation in concrete that took place in Palestrina, UNESCO city. There are remains of the hemicycles with very attractive opus incertum work and embracing arms of the Barberini Palace, theatre staircase leading into it a kind of a pyramid with the goddess at the apex.
My painting is about the ancient Entertainment district with amazing complex of Sanctuary of Fortuna, the ancient market and shops, a theatre, a shopping mall, a Mecca for Romans of its day, on this hillside. Strolling past the hill with lots of terraces, with the remains of shops, you can imagine fashion lovers who went shopping, and then they could go to the theatre there. In combination with the nature on the hill, the view is fascinating and beautiful…I added blue sky colour and clean lemon yellow to my watercolour painting. The temple was dedicated to Goddess Isis and Fortune. The architecture of this monument symbolizes both of them because Isis is the loyalty, and Fortune brings good luck. I think this is why this amazing complex has survived, and multiplied and pleased, as people remember and worship this unique place.
Another revolutionary discovery for the city as UNESCO World Heritage Sites that Roman architects were able to achieve for the building was their solution for the terrace on the hill. They made the upper part of the capitol columns with an angle that made it possible for the higher level of the columns to stand at the top of the lower level. Roman architects went further than Greek and Etruscan architects; they abandoned the traditional architecture and had the willingness to change things. Concrete architecture experiments prove once again they can have a lasting impact on the architecture
Address: Via Colle Pastino 20, 00036, Palestrina, Italy
Tools used for my painting Watercolour Cotman terra de siena and viridian Corman, Charvin bleu royal, Derwent, Albert Durer and Faber Castell watercolour pencils. Paper Van Gogh, National gallery watercolour album, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.)
The magic of the holidays is in the making! Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
Sanctuaries and the expressive potential of Roman concrete construction. 3-3
This lecture was about two Sanctuaries, they were meant to attract large numbers of people to visit the Temples, shopping areas, souvenir shops, theatre. The Sanctuary of Hercules at Tivoli had columns placed engaged or attached, the prototype for the Coliseum in Rome, with the actual street Via Tiburtina that was leaving from Rome to Tivoli so people can’t miss it. Not just to walk through it but to see something that really amazes the eye.
My painting is about a Roman place of the Sanctuary of the Temple of Jupiter, Anxur of Terratine and its internal corridor of the Sanctuary of Jupiter, where the podium is well preserved. I was attracted by the reference in the professor’s photo, where the doors smoothly merged into one another. This reminded me of sci-fi movies where you see some doors receding to another planet or century or place…
This revolutionary design was used in many other architectural monuments. It’s not just about the view of the doors that look as if they are diminishing in size, although they aren’t in reality but also the idea of creating exciting visual experiences as you walk through something. There are rounded entrances, as if it’s a corridor of time, coming to us from the future to the past or vice versa. It’s a magical phenomenon that fascinates through the creation of vista and panorama with mirroring doors that lead you to where you wish to travel: whether to the past or the future with something new to learn and return with new knowledge.
All roads lead to Rome – Alain de Lille
Bon voyage! Until the next travel:)
Painting- Temple of Jupiter, Anxur of Terratine, Roman Architecture
Tools used for my painting Watercolour Cotman terra de siena and viridian Corman, Charvin bleu royal, Derwent, Albert Durer and Faber Castell watercolour pencils. Paper Van Gogh, National gallery watercolour album, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.)
The magic of the holidays is in the making! Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure
Defensive Stone walls and regular town planning, Roman Architecture. 2-3.
The wall around Rome itself and Rome was encircled by Servian Walls in Rome dates to 373 BC. Romans were colonizing towns in Italy, and they were putting walls around them. Gate of Falerii Novi is one of the small town’s ancient walls near Rome that was built in 241 B.C. The quite spectacular arch was completed in extraordinary creative and innovative way in Roman architecture. It all begins here in the arch of the gate and the wall of Falerii Novi according to the Roman Architecture course. Romans started to think making of urban spaces and places during this particular period. They were very careful about their selection of materials, reddish brown tufa and grey peperino stones, in order to emphasize this distinction in texture and in color. They started to use the alternating square and rectangular blocks as well as the scheme of headers and stretchers for this wall.
The painting is about Gate of Falerii Novi, one of the earliest and masterfully done arch in Roman architecture. The architect has achieved is to take a series of wedge shaped blocks, it was here that stone cutting began. What is unique, because it is neatly laid out in order (long to short) and it is so elegantly done that everything is still perfectly preserved. The Romans were concerned that the barbarians could attack and destroy their cities, not only Rome, but also their small other cities, and through gaining experience, continued to make revolutionary discoveries in architecture.
Beauty and tenderness and strength that preserve the inviolability of the Roman era, which attracts me from high school, I see echoes of those first Roman gates in any world building including Toronto. It is a perfect one-day trip from Rome.
How can I ever miss such a trip before? I hope to paint En plein air this monument soon and to gaze up at and enjoy the Gate of Falerii Novi that was built more than twenty two centuries ago.
Painting — Gate of Falerii Novi, Roman Architecture
Year of construction — 241 BC
Address — Falerii, Lazio, Italy
Tools used for my painting Watercolour Charvin ochre rouge + violet-Cotman dioxazine purple, Derwent, Albert Durer and Faber Castell watercolour pencils. Paper Fluid 100, cold press watercolour album, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.))
The magic of the holidays is in the making! Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
I continue the painting for my course Yale’s course Roman Architecture https://www.coursera.org/learn/roman-architecture. Rome, the Temple of Jupiter Optimus Maximus Capitolinus, Roman Architecture. 2-2.
I should admit that the information from this lecture is my favourite one so far from the course. The temple of Jupiter, Juno and Minerva, was built under the rule of the Etruscan King Tarquinius Priscus and completed by his grandson king Tarquinius Superbus on the Capitoline Hill in the sixth century BC. Design of the building had a huge impact for Roman and world architecture. There was a vast and beautiful Temple dedicated to three gods- Jupiter and his two female goddess companions, Minerva, the goddess of art, wisdom, medicine, commerce, handicrafts, poetry and Juno, the goddess who protected the nation as a whole and also kept special watch over all aspects of women’s lives.
I understand why it was such a beautiful Temple… because two out of three parts were dedicated to the female goddesses, and each god had a single cella. The Temple had the triple entrance way into three cellas of the structure. Democracy and equality for the 6th century BC, do you agree? The main temple was rebuilt several times, and all the time a colossal structure towered over the city with importance as a cultural, religious and civic center of Rome. The Temple was as beautiful as a miracle. I will add two quotes about the building from the Yale Roman Architecture course to this post:
Roman emperor Constantia’s II in the 4 century AD articulates its grandeur well: “beside the Temple of Jupiter everything else is like earth compared to heaven”.
Cicero, after the great fire of 83 B.C. and the rebuilding of the Temple of Jupiter OMG in marble: “Let us feel that conflagration to have been the will of heaven, and its purpose not to destroy the temple of Almighty Jupiter, but to demand of us one more splendid and magnificent!”
My painting is about the Chief temple of ancient Rome, the most important temple completed with mud brick for the podium and for the walls, wood and a red terracotta roof.
Painting- Rome, Temple of Jupiter OMG, Capitolini Triad, Roman Architecture. Year of construction- Precisely in 509. Address Via del Tempio di Giove, 18, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Rome, Temple of Jupiter OMG, Capitolini Triad
An absolute discovery for me was that the Temple was built prior to the construction of the Parthenon in Athens (447 B.C.). Romans looked back to other nations’ architecture, what had been done by the Greeks and what had been done by the Etruscans. Romans picked and chose what they liked in each and they brought that together in an entirely new creation, with their own culture and religion. Roman architects mixed it up and created a distinctive style, that we know now as the Roman temple. Another interesting fact is that the religious service took place outside, the priest would officiate outside the temple, and very few were allowed to go inside to see sacred cult statues.
The temple was the only building that survived after the raiding of the barbarians in the 3rd century AD. The temple stood for about 1000 years. The remains can still be seen in the Piazzale Caffarelli, now part of the Capitoline Museums, and of its garden in Rome. Our family was several times in the museum, walked along this part of the museum and did not even suspect what miracle of architecture we were passing by, we hope to return back soon and enjoy the remains of the greatest architectural project in the 6th century BC.
All roads lead to Rome – Alain de Lille
Bon voyage! Until the next travel:)
The magic of the holidays is in the making! Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
Tools used for my painting Watercolour Charvin Savannah + Van Gogh ultramarine, Derwent, Albert Durer and Faber Castell watercolour pencils. Paper Acquarello Fabriano, grana grossa rough watercolour album, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.)
The first experiments in Roman concrete construction. 3-2
There was an ancient large warehouse on the banks of the Tiber River in Rome. This site was found due to archaeological research in Rome. Scientists used the great Roman historian Livy’s notes, who was writing about Porticus Aemilia in the age of Augustus. In addition, the marble Map of Rome, partly readable, was helping this discovery. In the lecture there was a restored view of the Basilica Aemilia and how it looked like. It was made of concrete and it had barrel vaults that opened the walls up, created piers, and arches above those piers, so both axial movements through the building were available but also with lateral movement, revolutionary architecture.
For my painting I found a video on YouTube with Roman archeological professor at the heart of the ancient Porticus Aemilia. I added some murky greenish waters of the Tiber, as the Google earth app always shows the river with green vs. blue color. The Porticus Aemilia had four tiers rising up ever so slightly along the slope, with barrel vault, arched doorways, as well as the arched windows. The ancient four-story storage’s building had excellent architectural additions.
It was a beautiful building near the river with the light penetrating everywhere, unlike the boring gloomy modern warehouses. Roman architects were using their revolutionary solutions of using concrete. This design would be difficult to make out of stone, but concrete did its thing. Voila:)
All roads lead to Rome – Alain de Lille
Bon voyage! Until the next travel:)
Painting- Rome, Porticus Aemilia, Roman Architecture
The magic of the holidays is in the making! Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
Tools used for my painting Watercolour Cotman terra de siena and viridian Corman, Charvin bleu royal, Derwent, Albert Durer and Faber Castell watercolour pencils. Paper Van Gogh, National gallery watercolour album, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.)
The advent of the Corinthian Order Roman Architecture. 2-5.
In Tivoli, not far from Rome, there is a gentle, feminine temple of Vesta that is beautifully situated over a particularly verdant area of Tivoli. It is very well preserved and still has details of ancient walls and columns. The temple was built in the 1st century BC on the hill of the ancient acropolis of the city of Tibur, formerly called Tivoli. The city was under the Etruscan king’s rule and also had Greek artistic traditions. In combination it had a strong influence on local art and architecture.
My painting is about this feminine Temple, I did it with very delicate, very soft paints; my favourite colors smoothly flow and complement each other. The Temple of Vesta with its base of the structure that grows out of the rock, harmoniously continues it, and rushes to the graceful round rotunda on the ten columns of the Corinth. The frieze is decorated with reliefs depicting bull skulls, a tribute to the Roman tradition of sacrifice, and heavy garlands hanging from them. A cella is inscribed in the circumference of the rotunda, the core of all the buildings, the place where the ceremonies were carried out. The dome of the rotunda had a hole for the smoke of the sacred fire that burned here in honour of Vesta with delicate, lace and aerial structure.
The columns were invented by the Greeks and Romans and used all three types – Doric, Ionic and Corinthian. The Corinthian column is equally beautiful from all sides due to its harmony and it was more popular in Roman Architecture. The Temple is located on a hill that fits perfectly into the landscape, like a young girl, with curls; reminiscent of a popular widespread Italian flower. The column looks the same and beautiful from all angles with harmony that, objectively, makes it the best
Painting – Temple of Vesta, Tivoli, Roman Architecture
Year of construction 1st century BC
Address: Piazza Tempio di Vesta, 6, 00019 Tivoli RM, Italy
Tools used for my painting Watercolour Cotman terra de siena and viridian Corman, Charvin bleu royal, Derwent, Albert Durer and Faber Castell watercolour pencils. Paper Van Gogh, National gallery watercolour album, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.)
The Hellenization of late Republican temple, Roman Architecture. 2-4.
The Temple of Portunus is located in the former of the Forum Boarium, nowadays it is on the Piazza della Bocca della Verità, very popular place of the Mouth of Truth from the movie Roman Holiday with stars Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck.
It used to be a major commercial area along the banks of the Tiber in antiquity. In the Republican times here was a small port nearby from the side of the Tiber and market, where a lively livestock trade was carried on.
My painting is about the Temple of Portunus; the reference was my husband’s photo from our trip to Rome several years ago. From a distance the impression is that the whole building was made out of stone. The temple of Portunus by Tiber with their columns encircle the structure but is engaging into the wall. It characterizes the Ionic order, called spiral volutes. Greeks’ ionic capitals created for this type of column decoration like a hairstyle, the front parts of them with curls (ionic cymatium) and fruit garlands, and flutes were drawn along the entire trunk, descending like folds on the dress of bride ;) This is another example that Roman architects looked at Etruscan and Greek precedents, decided what they liked and mixed it up the way it best represented their own culture and religion. Another revolutionary step of Roman Architecture for this Temple was using roman concrete construction inside of the podium. This is the reason why Temple of Portunus is one of the few ancient buildings that have managed to stay intact until today.
In the middle ages the temple of Portunus was recreated to a Christian church, and this is another reason why it has been perfectly preserved. In this course the Professor showed the 19th century painting of the temple of Portunus with some architectural changes by this time. Nowadays we can see that the Temple was renovated closer to the original design of the structure, very important for the future preservation of Roman architecture.
In the ancient Roman mythology Portunus was considered the god of doors, keys and honeycomb, the guard of entrances and exits. I would like to go back and visit not just the outside and inside and I see everything with my own eyes. And I hope that the ancient god Portunus will open the door of its Temple for us.
All roads lead to Rome- Alain de Lille
Bon voyage! Until the next travel:)
Painting – Temple of Portunus, Rome, Roman Architecture
Year of construction – between 120 and 80 BC
Address – Piazza della Bocca della Verità, 00186 Roma RM, Italy
Tools used for my painting Watercolour siena, burnt siena Van Gogh, perm red light, lemon yellow, viridian Cotman Charvin ochre rouge + violet-Cotman dioxazine purple, Derwent, Albert Durer and Faber Castell watercolour pencils. Paper Acquarello watercolour album. Fabriano, grana grossa rough watercolour album, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.)
Δ
document.getElementById( "ak_js_60" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );
The magic of the holidays is in the making! Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure
You are welcome to visit my personal website pages. There, you can find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings. You can buy canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
Travel and Art. Urban Sketching in Paris: Bastille Day Highlights.
French National Day
Every year, French Nation celebrates the most important day for the country French National Day or Bastille Day.
July 14 in 2019 was year of 230 anniversary of Bastille and 130 years of Eiffel Tower. It was one of my life’s highlights and here are some tips how to celebrate the Bastille Day in Paris.
A watercolor painting of the bustling Pont Alexandre III in Paris. It showcases its iconic golden statues and lively atmosphere. This is perfect for celebrating Bastille Day.
The most attractive bridge in Paris, Alexander III, that connects Artillery Academy and Concord square. It is illuminated day and night. The bridge features gold statues and gorgeous street lamps. Relaxing and busy locals and visitors from all countries enjoy it.
Sketches capturing the festive atmosphere of Bastille Day in Paris, featuring fireworks, a military parade, and iconic street lamps.
Fireworks in Paris
July 14, some sketches were done on location with fireworks, parade and street lamps on the streets of Paris.
A vibrant urban sketch captures the Eiffel Tower against a colorful sunset. It showcases the lively atmosphere of Paris during Bastille Day celebrations.
Sketch of a military parade during Bastille Day celebrations, showcasing uniformed soldiers and a festive atmosphere in Paris.
I suggest watching Paris’ morning military parade down the Avenue des Champs Élysées, there are representatives of different military units. Interesting view when airplane planes are painting the sky in a 3-color rainbow- red, blue and white.
Wedding in Paris
Then, relaxing walking around city, it is nice holiday atmosphere. I made few sketches on location.
How about wedding in Paris? I did the painting of a bride on one of the Parisian bridge when a designer, groom and photographer were around this young lady in her white dress in one of important day in the life:)
A bride poses for a painting on a Parisian bridge. She is surrounded by her wedding party. The iconic Eiffel Tower is in the background.
Sport in Paris
In the center, next to Grand Palais, people are playing football. Others are sitting and enjoying lunch on the grass. They are waiting for the fireworks. I noticed there were no one unpleasant incident during a day even the city is full of people:)
Sketch of people enjoying leisure activities at Grand Palais in Paris, capturing the festive atmosphere of Bastille Day.
There is a young couple on scooters exploring the city. A mother and a girl are playing games next to the Paris Military Academy. This day has a very relaxing feeling.
A lively sketch shows a young couple on scooters. A mother and her daughter are enjoying a relaxing day near the Paris Military Academy.
Where to eat- how about the historical place?
The restaurant Bouillon Chartier is known for its magnificent stucco molding on the walls.
In Les beaux quartiers, Louis Aragon mentioned Le bouillon Chartier. The young medical student character Edmond Barbentane has lunch there regularly…
It has a majestic atmosphere. The waiters write the bill directly on the tablecloth. They have followed this custom since the opening in 1896.
An artistic watercolor depiction of Bouillon Chartier, highlighting its historic charm and vibrant ambiance.
Most importantly, its food is ingenious, homemade, and varied. The dishes are not very expensive, always offering something to surprise and welcome their clients. There is even a song about this restaurant. The restaurant is mentioned in Albert Willemetz’s 1939 song “Félicie aussi”, sung by Fernandel.
Evening events on National French Day
A vibrant watercolor sketch captures the fireworks above the Eiffel Tower. The scene reflects on the Seine River during Bastille Day celebrations in Paris.
And of course the highlight of this day- firework in the evening! We chose a place to watch firework on the bridge. We were standing in Parisian Babylon. We admired the view of the Eiffel Tower and the firework itself. We also saw the reflection of the city and the next bridge, Alexander III. People were shouting joyful exclamations, they were from different parts of the world, enjoying of this show there were people from the UK, China, Portugal, Russia, Japan, and us, from Canada:)
Well, there are 5 reasons to be in Paris in National French Day
Start with the morning parade. You can relax or play football with your friends in the center of Paris. Alternatively, rent a scooter and enjoy Paris with some speed. Don’t forget to view the Eiffel Tower with some snack. A baguette is a must-have. Enjoy the night fireworks. Additionally, engage in urban sketching of happy life. Capture the architecture of the old and young city of Paris.
Bon voyage! Until the next travel:)
All paintings belong to the author. No image is to be copied without permission.
You are welcome to visit my personal website pages. There, you can find out more about the artwork I am offering in oil and watercolor paintings. You can buy canvas prints, framed prints, and more artwork.
Tools used for my painting. Watercolour used Charvin and Van Gogh brands, Pastel GrayPas Expressionist, Derwent watercolour pencils and Faber Castell artist pens. Paper Strathmore Watercolour and Mixed Media albums, 15×20 cm (6×8 in.)
Join me on this artistic adventure as I explore the captivating world of #TravelVibes #ArtAdventure
Art and travel club 