Rome

The Artistic Impact of Trajan’s Market in Watercolor. Exploring Yale’s Course on Roman Architecturer.

Artist, Roman Architecture, Uncategorized, Urban sketching, Voyage

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

Watercolor painting of Trajan's Market in Rome, featuring arches and architectural details.
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.

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!

A colorful drawing depicting Trajan's Market, with arches and architectural features in warm tones, alongside a small dog sitting in the foreground.
A vibrant watercolor illustration of Trajan’s Market, showcasing its ancient architectural beauty, with a playful cat in the foreground.

This wasn’t just a place. It was a testament to Roman ingenuity, a hub of commerce, and a dazzling display of architectural prowess.

Maybe I will start a new sketch or painting series of Roman Scenes in future.. How about recreating some scenes from the Forum of Trajan or other antique Roman locations? I love the idea about this project. Join me to explore the magnificence of this ancient shopping paradise:)

All roads lead to Rome- Alain de Lille

Bon voyage! Until the next travel

https://www.coursera.org/learn/roman-architecture/home/welcome

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.

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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.)

Roman Architecture and the Iconic Pantheon. Art and Travel

Artist, Roman Architecture, Uncategorized, Urban sketching, Voyage

Watercolor journey with the course Roman Architecture by the Yale University part 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?

Watercolor painting of the Pantheon in Rome, highlighting its iconic oculus and intricate dome structure, with a blend of blue and warm tones.
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 small cat navigating ancient stairs, showcasing the contrast between the modern animal and the historical architecture.
A sketch of a cat gracefully navigating ancient stairs, symbolizing the contrast between modern life and Rome’s timeless architecture.

Bon voyage! Until the next travel:)

https://www.coursera.org/learn/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.

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.

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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.)

Discover Yale’s Roman Architecture Course. Servian Wall.

An Artist's Perspective on Roman Architecture, Artist, Roman Architecture, Uncategorized

Exploring Yale’s Course on Roman Architecture. Art Inspired by Ancient Rome

Let’s start my virtual journey Art + Roman Architecture + the city of Rome with Yale’s course Roman Architecture. Professor of History of Art and Classics Diana E.E. Kleiner Dunham

Why did I decide to dive headfirst into the world of Roman architecture

As I start the Yale’s course on Roman Architecture, I’m reminded of my childhood dreams of becoming an architect. Life has taken me on a different path, but it’s never too late to pursue our passions.
To share this journey, I’ll be conducting research on each topic we cover and posting my findings here. Plus, as an artist, I’ll be creating a watercolor painting inspired by each lecture—combining my love for art and history.

Well, life is funny thing. You are dreaming about one thing when you are a child, and doing another thing when you are an adult. It is never so late to start to learn our dreamy course.

My visual path to learn Roman Architecture course

As a student, I will share my knowledge. I will conduct research after each topic.And as an artist, I will add one watercolor freely painting for each lecture

How I do my paintings for the course? There is one cheerful technique called from middle tone that I have learned in my art school many years ago. I will give the link to school’s website at the end of this post.

Middle tone watercolor technique

This Italian painting technique is called the middle tone. Basically, you use two or three watercolor paints without worrying too much. The colors blend freely, creating a middle tone. You just add light highlights and dark shadows. And voila, you can paint playfully and fearlessly with this technique!

Have you embraced middle-tone watercolor technique in your artworks? Do you feel that exhilarating spark of joy? Please, I invite you to share your experience in the comments below. I would be thrilled to hear your inspiring story!

So, let’s start!

Introduction. Roman Urbanism. 1-1
Rome, Servian Walls, Roman Architecture. Year of construction- 3 century B.C.

During the first lecture of Roman Architecture, the professor taught us about the Servian Walls. They are an incredible example of ancient Roman ingenuity.

The Servian Walls stand as a magnificent testament to ancient Roman ingenuity and determination! This formidable barrier rose proudly around the legendary Seven Hills of the republican city. It was constructed in the wake of the catastrophic Sack of Rome in the 4th century B.C., a period when the very soul of the city cried out for protection and resilience. These walls embody the spirit of a civilization striving to safeguard its legacy and embrace its future with unwavering strength!

My first painting celebrates the Servian Wall, the very first ancient Roman wall! This artwork pays tribute to this remarkable monument of ancient Roman architecture, highlighting its significance and enduring beauty.

Watercolor painting of the Servian Walls in Rome, showcasing a blend of colors and light highlights. The artwork captures the ancient structure surrounded by greenery, symbolizing Roman architectural heritage.
Watercolor painting of the Servian Walls in Rome, showcasing the vibrant colors and textures inspired by ancient Roman architecture.
The early period of Roman architecture

In the early period of Roman architecture, builders simply stacked stone blocks. These blocks were piled one on top of the other to form the wall.

Rome grew over time. In the first lecture I have learned that in the late third century AD, the emperor Aurelian reigned. During this time, the impressive set of the Aurelian Walls was built. These walls were constructed to protect the city of Rome from external threats.

These fortifications represented a significant architectural achievement of their time. They served as a symbol of the resilience and enduring power of the Roman Empire. They helped secure the city against invasions. They provided a stronghold for its citizens.

The walls spanned approximately 19 kilometers

Romans were constructed using a combination of brick and stone. This showcases the engineering prowess of ancient Rome. It also contributed to the city’s defensive capabilities for centuries to come.

A new technology is concrete revolutionized Roman architecture and concrete faced with brick. We can still see some parts of the two ancient walls in Rome.

I added to this post a watercolor pencil- sketch with a cat that enjoying a view of Roman architecture, just for fun:)

A watercolor sketch depicting a cat sitting in front of colorful buildings and trees, showcasing a view of Roman architecture.
Watercolor sketch featuring a cat overlooking a view of Roman architecture, inspired by the Servian Walls and the Roman landscape.
Termini station in Rome and nearby hidden gem

We can still see the very wide section of the Servian Walls near Rome’s train station Stazione Termini station.

I must admit, I’ve wandered past a section of the fortress wall near the station in Rome many times. It’s like my own version of a tourist treadmill! Architecture is not just about buildings; it’s about shaping experiences.

And let me tell you, that Esquiline Gate of the Servian Wall? It’s basically the VIP entrance to my accidental monument-hopping tour!

“All roads lead to Rome” Alain de Lille

I completely missed this epic piece of Roman architecture in history. I just admired the architectural monuments during my multiple trips to Rome. I am gaining new knowledge with this course.

On my next trip, I will definitely return to the remains of the fortress wall. I’ll also be making a grand entrance at the gates of the Eternal City. Hopefully, they’ll have a welcome sign and not just a “tourists beware” notice!

This is what I have learned in the first lecture in this course. It is a lot of new information for me. I love Rome and its architecture.

Join me as I uncover the beauty of Roman architecture, and let’s explore this amazing world together!

Bon voyage! Until the next travel:)

Address: Piazzale dei Cinquecento, Rome

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.

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.

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Yale University Roman Architecture online course https://www.coursera.org/learn/roman-architecture/home/welcome

art online school https://mogut-vse.ru/

Tools used for my painting are next:

Watercolour Windsor Newton Gamboge , Alison, indigo , Derwent, Albert Durer and Faber Castell Watercolour pencils. Paper Fluid 100, cold press Watercolour albums, 22×30 cm (9 ×12 in.)

Exploring Roman Architecture Through Watercolor Art

An Artist's Perspective on Roman Architecture, Artist, Roman Architecture, Uncategorized, Urban sketching, Voyage

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 depicting a view of rooftops in a city, framed by lush green trees. The scene features a prominent structure with a blue dome, suggesting an architectural element, amidst terracotta tiles and greenery.
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 watercolor painting depicting a landscape with trees and buildings, inspired by Roman architecture.
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 at sunset, featuring dark branches and warm colors reflecting on the water.
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.

  1. Acquarello watercolour album. Fabriano cold pressed
  2. Acquarello watercolour album. Fabriano, grana grossa rouch
  3. Fluid 100, cold press
  4. Van Gogh, National gallery

Watercolour paints:

  1. Van Gogh travel box
  2. Van Gogh tubes
  3. PWC
  4. Cotman
  5. Winsor Newton
  6. Charvin
  7. Box Munovo
  8. Gelly roll Sakura white pen
  9. Watercolour pencils Albert Durer
  10. Watercolour pencils Faber Castell Durer
  11. 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

https://www.coursera.org/learn/roman-architecture

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.

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.

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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.)

My Talented students at Art session with their master pieces Rome

Art workshops

Celebrating Creativity: Wine and Paint Night Experience

So proud of the team:) Wine and paint night with team of 4 intelligent and creative people.

A collage of four women holding their watercolor paintings, showcasing their artistic creations during a wine and paint night. The background features indoor plants and colorful lighting.
Celebrating creativity at a wine and paint night with the team, showcasing beautiful watercolor masterpieces.

We are using next Watercolour paints

  • We combined Cotman cadmium red and cadmium red pale paints.
  • For green colour, we used Cotman Sap green and Van Gogh Hoocker’s green deep.
  • Our paper album is Fabriano Acquarello cold pressed 300 g/m2.
A collage of four watercolor paintings featuring trees and architectural structures, showcasing artistic techniques used during a team painting workshop.
A collage of watercolor paintings created during a team wine and paint night, showcasing creativity and advanced glazing techniques.

Technique was advanced, glazing with 3 layers. I am so proud of these master pieces! Will continue to create workshops, already have several ideas.

A group of five women proudly displaying their watercolor paintings during a wine and paint night, surrounded by a cozy, illuminated environment.
Celebrating creativity with a wine and paint night, showcasing our team’s beautiful watercolor masterpieces!

A woman holding a watercolor painting in a kitchen, dressed in a burgundy dress, with a proud expression. Text overlay highlights her as an inspiring and patient teacher.
A talented artist showcasing her watercolor painting during a creative team night.
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.

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