The Bath house

I went out this morning with the intention of painting something in watercolor.  By the time I landed on my spot, the L st. Bath house it was eleven a.m. and because I loved the shadow pattern I didn't want to take the risk of losing it before the noon day sun changed everything.  The lesson here is to get out earlier or select a spot to paint the day before so you're ready to go. In this case I decided to use the quick ink wash sketch method using the water soluble pen and water brush. 

 I love this type of scene:  There is great movement of figures and cars as well as the sun/shadow pattern.  When doing a scene like this it is important to establish your eye level immediately so figures walking toward and away from you will be placed at the correct level.  If you look carefully you can see where I established horizontal lines across the picture plane where my level was.  I was sitting so someone my height would appear over this line.  Once again balance of light, gray and black are critically important to the balance and three-dimensionality of the picture. I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe long weekend.  I am going to rest my eyes for a few days and come back refreshed next week.