Carrying a sketch book at all times is a good idea, however this time of year is perfect to put a small sketch book, palette, brush and pen into your bag. Then find a place in nature where you can doodle and enjoy….oh and don’t forget something to eat and drink…
Sketch books come in all sizes….and although I like to carry a pocket sized book for quick notes, every now and then I will use a bigger tablet, which was the case with this sketch book I used in France during the summer of 2012.
The first two rapid watercolours appealed because of the reflections of the boat and overhanging trees…plus it was such a peaceful place to sit on the banks of the Sein.
This sketch was painted on July 4th 2012….I was with artists, Mariethe Salort, and Bonnie Halsey Dutton….We had just enjoyed a lovely champagne lunch provided by dear Yves….our taxi driver:)
Courriers sur Sein – watercolour and gouache
We spent another blissful day in the beautiful village of Gerberoy. I remember that the Tour de France was close by that day, and every time we passed riders, we yelled ‘Viva La France’ from the car…
This sketch was from the church which sat high up over the village of Gerberoy, overlooking the beautiful French countryside.
Mariethe Salort managed to arrange for us to paint in Monet’s Garden at Giverney after all the tourists had gone. It was a wonderful experience to sit in the gardens with no one else around.
Sitting in Monet’s Garden, all alone.
A bridge over the lily pond at Monet’s Garden, Giverney.
Remember to click on images to see a larger version.
You might even see some Magical Hummingbirds.
http://www.janetweightreed.co.uk
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A Bientôt
My Life as an Artist (2) 
I don’t sketch. I’m not an artist at all. But I always used to carry a notepad and pen with me so I could scribble down notes on things I saw, conversations I heard, etc. Creative types should always have something handy nearby to record their inspiration.
I totally agree….often my sketch books are filled with as many written notes as sketches. I love looking back on sketch/note books years later. I am always taken right back to the moment again. Thanks so much for your comment:)
It’s a blog post I can relate to. And I thought blogs were supposed to be interactive? We’re here to communicate and inspire each other.
And your sketches are wonderful, by the way.
Thank you so much:)
sketchbooks… notebooks… all very important to those of us who don’t have a photographic memory.
And that definitely includes me:) No photographic memory this end. x
I just LOVE your sketches here, especially Monet’s garden ones, how absolutely wonderful to be able to apint there without the crowds!!!xxx
HI Dina…yes being in Monet’s garden all alone, was one of those very special moments in life. Hope you are thoroughly enjoying your lovely gardens in this good weather:)xxxx
I find it’s too easy to forget now. so carry little cards around
Good idea….whatever works best:)
Reblogged this on rebloggobbler and commented:
Gorgeous work!
Good morning, Thank you so much for re blogging this….Have a beautiful Wednesday. Janet. 🙂
🙂 welcome and thanks!