On Day 13, we said goodbye to Siena and headed north toward Lucca, meandering through the countryside on narrow, two-lane roads, enjoying a perfect spring day in Tuscany.
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| 10″ x 7″, ink, watercolor pencil, and watercolor in Stillman & Birn Beta series sketchbook |
Our first stop was the medieval walled city of San Gimignano, famous for its fourteen towers which form an unforgettable picture against the bright blue sky.
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| Drawn with a Derwent chocolate 66 watercolour pencil, with watercolor washes added on top |
I wish we had had more time to explore. The place just oozes history, and the architecture is incredible.
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| Drawn with a Sakura Pigma Micron 01 black pen, with watercolor wash |
There were really nice shops, too, filled with Italian leather purses, embroidered linens, and hand-painted pottery.
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| 10″ x 7″, ink & watercolor in Stillman & Birn Beta series sketchbook |
I felt like a typical tourist, stopping to snap photos every few feet. “Oooh! Look at that door! Oh, look at those adorable little old ladies standing under that archway! What a great composition! Oh!! Look at the laundry hanging against that 500 year-old stone wall! And the view! Augh! I can’t stand it – it’s so BEAUTIFUL!!!”
Yes, that’s exactly how I spent my hours in San Gimignano. And my days in Tuscany.
It’s really that wonderful.
5 Comments
Your Tuscan buildings are so textured and gorgeous! You are making me dream of returning to Italy soon.
I dream of returning, too, Joan. Once just isn't enough.
Leslie, I love the warmth and "life" in your paintings. Makes me wish I could just pick up and go myself!
Also, thanks again for the Intro to Journaling class. It was a wonderful experience and gave me many things to think about!
Lydia Mansur
It was a pleasure having you in class, Lydia. I hope to see you at another MAL class soon.
I love these journal pages! They are so happy and fun as well as beautiful. Makes me feel like I've been to Italy too! See you in class on Saturday……Cathy McCort