To the lighthouse
Posted: December 25, 2017 Filed under: Uncategorized 19 CommentsToday my bike took me to the Sanibel Island Lighthouse (c. 1884) where I sat on the sand and looked up, way up, at the ribbons and wreaths that decorate the top of the iron structure. This is not an easy thing to draw, I’ll admit. The perspective of the supporting structure is tricky, and sitting on the sand without a chair doesn’t help, but on this trip I’m experimenting with carrying as little as possible in my sketch bag.
I often have a tendency to bring every brush I own with me, as well as several sketch books, a folding stool, a sun umbrella… the list goes on and on. But I love the freedom of travelling around by bike to sketch, so my kit this week is whatever fits in my ultralight backpack. Tomorrow I’ll take a photo of my supplies.
Shari Blaukopf's Sketchbook 
Lovely sketch and what a lovely thing to do on Christmas Day. Hope it’s bringing back youthful memories of cycling around Provence painting …. if I’ve remembered the story right?
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Great scene. I also like to travel light when out of my regular area. Would you also include the brand of sketch book & paper type for our reference.
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From someone who does the same with ALL the brushes plus kitchen sink (it feels like), thanks for sharing that !!! Looking forward to your supply photo tomorrow
Meanwhile, continue the fun, rest & Season’s Best
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Hi Shari,
This is really lovely. The story behind this sketch is very interesting too. I wonder about including the story on the facing page, in your own handwriting. Many of your blog post narratives would add a further dimension to your sketchbooks.
Happy cycling.
Sandi
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I don’t usually do much writing in my sketchbooks Sandi. I guess I started out that way and have continued to include only drawings, but I certainly enjoy writing my posts when I get home.
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way to go!Shari.
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I think you did a great job on the structure of the lighthouse tower. I like your idea of biking and traveling very light…although I like a little more comfort myself and would definitely need a small chair.
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A chair would make it a little easier but I didn’t bring my folding stool on this holiday so I have to manage with spots I can find to sit. But it’s not too bad on the sand.
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You lucky woman!!!! Enjoy all the sand and sun!!!
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I will. Thanks Donna.
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as they say,”Less ( art supplies) is More” Love this one !
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Thanks Terry!
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Wow – your simplification of your supplies so you can travel light did not in any way whatsoever impede your painting skills! This is lovely – and what a great job you did on the lighthouse structure. As one who packs all but the kitchen sink – don’t think I haven’t tried – I’m looking forward to seeing your pared down supplies. Happy travels!
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I just posted a photo of my lightest kit. See what you think. Thanks Mary.
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Love your wstercolor..
Thanks for sharing
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Have fun..I gather you are away.WE have a fondness for Fl:)Love your sunny work..we had snow Christmas eve and day and right now it is10 F in the SUNSHINE..blue skies..because of the bitter cold.
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Please, Sir, may I have some more?
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Glad you found a place in the sun and warmth this frigid (it’s only 3F here in the mountains of Virginia) winter. When much younger I lived due east of Ft. Myers on the Atlantic coast of Florida; not quite as warm as the Gulf side but still a semi-tropical respite from the cold. Enjoy the sketching and painting time.
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Thanks John. I’m enjoying every minute here (and the cold has now made its way down here too). I know what I have to go back to very soon so I am soaking up every bit of warmth I can get. Stay warm.
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