sketching Paris

I attempted to sketch another Paris building - hubby took this photo of the Paris Opera House.  My first dome attempt :)

source photo

There's a lot going on in this photo so I did some editing - also wanted to begin to use shadows and introduce some of the darkest darks.

And then, for something different, I tried a quicker sketch and simpler subject (except for the cars).

source photo

We walked home to our rental apartment many days on this street - the beginning of fall in Paris. Again added color with my Inktense watercolor pencils and a water brush.

Thanks for checking in - Bobi, thanks again for reminding and including me - it's a great way to start the new year!

attempting to sketch

I've long held the wish that I could draw / sketch.  My artistic commitment to myself this year is that this is the year I tackle that challenge. I had perspective drawing years ago as an interior design student, but I never really "got" it. I've purchased and read a zillion books on it, and while intellectually, I kinda understand, as soon as I sit down with pencil in hand, I'm lost.

So, I purchased a Perspective for Sketching video class on Craftsy.com and took a free sketching class at Daniel Smith last night. The journey begins................

My first effort for my first video lesson was to draw an elevation view of a building. I chose a photo of a door that I took in Paris last fall.

Sketches don't scan very well, but you get the idea.  Below is my reference photo.

I feel like I did a decent job of getting the proportions right - I'm excited to expand my sketching skills this year!