No left turn
Posted: December 29, 2022 Filed under: Uncategorized 14 CommentsAnother day, another paper to try — this time a sheet of Strathmore Gemini CP 140 lb. This is one I liked a lot. It’s a creamy paper with a soft texture that’s gorgeous to draw on. It also takes paint beautifully and the colours remain saturated. If you look on the Strathmore website, the paper is described as a traditional “old world” paper, and that might be why I like it. It reminds me of a deluxe edition of a novel that’s been printed on deckle-edged 100% cotton cream paper. You know how those books feel rich and luxurious every time you turn a page? That’s how this paper feels. And it responds beautifully when you touch it with a brush. Rough edges where you want them yet smooth enough for details, washes remaining damp for the right amount of time. It’s a paper that just feels right to me. Definitely worth experimenting on some more.
As for my location, I painted from the car today. I managed to get out there for a tiny window of good weather this morning, in between last night’s snowfall and tomorrow’s forecast of rain/thaw. There was even a few hours of welcome sunlight which gave me the snow shadows that I’ve been waiting for.
Shari Blaukopf's Sketchbook 
Stunning!
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Absolutely perfect! The sky grabbed me first, so like the sky, I saw this morning. The walkways and shadows falling across the street are so well true to nature this snowy December. It’s absolutely wonderful!
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Hi Shari, love this picture. Much like Bernadette’s comment, the sky is especially mesmerizing. Haven’t heard of this “Gemini” paper by Strathmore, but if it helps me create something remotely close to your painting, I’m definitely going to check it out!
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You sure can make a winter alley look inviting! I can smell the damp air and feel they sunshine. Thanks for the paper reviews. I will look into the Gemini paper. Happy Holidays!
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Beautiful! I really like your areas of clear pavement and the wet street from the melting snow. I haven’t heard of the Gemini paper. I’ll have to see if I can get some to try it.
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Wow! The colors are perfect in this painting.
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So wonderful ❤️
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Beautiful….. Bravo!
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I always enjoy your paintings of the routine places/objects in your daily life. Thanks also for the review of different watercolor papers!
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Many thanks for your creative , interesting and fun sketchbook tips and your wheelbarrow blog..You are a constant inspiration and reminder to enjoy and fulfill our artistic passion.!
All the best for a healthy and happy New Year!
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You sure know how to capture the grayness of cloudy winter days. The tonal variety of the wet patches on the street contrast so well with the massive gray sky. Great work.
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Your paintings are inspirational. Thank you.
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Hi Shari,I really like this one because the wet street is an eye-catcher. Just beautifully done.
It reminds me of one you have in your book on page 36, Rowan Ave. That one is my favorite in the whole book!! How you so beautifully and realistically represent the wet street with such a variety of stunning color draws me right in and I don’t want to turn the page!!
Thanks so much for sharing your wonderful skills. Nice to get a gift like this in the email several days a week! Have wonderful holidays,Patricia in Chico CA
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Love your snow scenes. I received the two I purchased in December. They are lovely, thank you:) And Happy New Year, Shari.
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