Sketches of People

For the past couple of years, the majority of my drawings/paintings have been of architecture and streetscapes and of course a few golf courses mixed in there. A new project that I plan to start in couple of months will involve people ⁄ portraits ⁄ characters. I am currently filling up my sketch book with quick line sketches with splashes of colour, capturing the personality and mood of people.

From Sketchbook, Jan 24

Black Shire Pub

The Black Shire takes its name from the Black Shire breed of horses of England, which are known for their strength and nobility. For the past century, Shire horses have delivered beer daily in the city streets of London, England, and are the breed that carried knights into battle in the armies of King Henry II. Visited the “The Black Shire Pub” at 511 Talbot Street with friends Jordana and Sharon and enjoyed a Denison's Dunkel.  

 

Formerly: The Last Drop, which got its namesake from a pub in Edinburgh where prisoners actually had their last meal and drinks before being publicly hanged.

 

TT07 The Black Shire Pub

Portrait: Heidi

Heidi

With this portrait of HEIDI, I have focused on the face and eyes and faded out the body.  I have added a graphic element of quotes, with my favourite being “Again, I must remind you, that a dog's a dog-- a cat's a cat. T. S. Eliot.

Portrait: Chloe

Chloe

Portraits are more than just a likeness. They are more than just pretty pictures of people and animals. A portrait should capture the subject's uniqueness and personality. Sometimes it is as subtle as the angle at which you are viewing it. Sometimes it is the reflected colours that create a mood. The most important feature to me is the eyes. I like the sense of communication that is created when the viewer makes eye contact with the portrait. Most of my portraits are of pets... I like some animals better than most people and most animals better than some people. With this portrait of CHLOE, I have focused on the face and eyes and faded out the body.

Coates of Arms

The Coates of Arms is a British Pub at 580 Talbot Street (corner of Albert Street), just a short walk from home. I like this ‘historic, old home’ converted into a pub. High ceilings, lots of dark wood, traditional wall paper and lots of soccer trophies over the bar. It was the Alex P Keaton (closed March 2009). The beverage of choice, this visit was Boddingtons, based in Manchester, England, since 1778.

TT06 The Coates of Arms

50 Taverns

New project, a continuation of the Streetscapes Series. This one involves a concentrated effort to enjoy the process more. There are lots of historic buildings, many of which are taverns. According to an article by freelance writer Kym Wolfe "The first tavern opened in 1826. By 1850, there were 25 saloons and a mere five years later, when London officially became a city, the number tripled to 75. In the 1870’s there were 170 taverns and hotels in London." So... 50 taverns, 50 beverages. I have already completed ten images, this one was the fourth. An evening out with my friend Sharon, owner of Richmond Cleaners.

“This building, dating back to 1854, was the original home of Josiah Blackburn’s “London Free Press,”. It served as the Queen’s Hotel from 1871 to 1920 and became the home of the “Farmer’s Advocate” from 1921 to 1965. With the intention of bringing “A Taste of Europe” and its warm hospitality to London the Marienbad opened on March 8, 1974. The restaurant took its name after the famous Czech spa Mariánské Lázne - Marienbad.” Excerpt from website: http://www.marienbad.ca/ The waitress recommended the German beer, Hacker-Pschorr.

TT04 Chaucer’s Pub (Image Size: 5.5" x 9")

Public Art

Under the Oxford Street Bridge between Talbot St and the Thames river, you will find this mural by London artist Tracy Root. I frequent the bike path in this area, so I watched the progress. The mural which has been completed for a few weeks now, was funded by the Heritage Committee and the London Arts Council. It's an unexpected splash of colour, I like it.

City of London Public Art Policy - "The City of London supports the display of art in public places that will strengthen the natural assets of the city, provide unique attractions and act as a constant delight to residents and visitors to London."


Mural by Tracy Root