So, one of the things I have planned for my sabbatical–which was not on the research application–is to put some time and effort into doing some art. I have watched a LOT of YouTube tutorials. The whole Urban Sketcher scene is an inspiration. And, something like this is amazing. I’ve done this in fits and starts over the last six months or so, but hadn’t tried to draw anything since about December.

So, a new category: on the page. This is a place for me to record my efforts over time.

April 2024 in Medan, Jalan Kesawan. Getting Started.

So, warts and all. A first stab at it. Good thing i just used quarter pages of B5 for these. You can see my notes to myself.

A little better. The old colonial buildings in Medan are great subject matter.

Same block, but a wider view of the buildings and a changed angle–not just direct. The perspective goes all to hell at each side, especially on the left. But, a new challenge and not wholly unsuccessful. I did this in a cafe called The Daily Dose, and their coffee was good. I got the Vaksin Iced Coffee. And, to stay with the COVID and “Dose” theme, they don’t use glasses. Coffee is served in what looks just like IV bags.

In progress…. They had a small sink right behind my table which came in handy. Perfect spot.

Later that same day, but down the block. Had to sit outside so waited until early evening. I got off to I think a pretty good start. Back to a direct perspective. But I was happy with how I managed the details better this time. And how the buildings stepped back as they went up. But then I had to go and mess it up! Impatient!

I should have stopped at the ink sketch but was too excited, so started trying to watercolor, but abject failure. Just had a simple palette and a couple water pens. Didn’t even have any tissue.

Lessons learned:

• Bring all the kit or at least enough.
• Can always do the color later.
• Be patient.
• Stop when the sun goes down
• Trying to watercolor as it gets dark is impossible. Duh!
• Be patient.