Drawing on Experience

Aglio e Olio - A lesson in simplicity

2011-04-30T13:38:00.003+02:00

When we moved to Italy, the first few months were spent developing a routine to bring some order to our new situation. My wife found work pretty quick - we were, after all, on her turf - and I was able to search the town for the best cappucino. I also became a daily visitor of the local outdoor markets. Fruits and veggies, fish, clothes, housewares - you name it and it was probably under one of the canopies in one of the squares during the week. My Italian training went from greetings and tenses to food and units of measure. I would spend the morning scouting for the next painting and picking up the ingredients for lunch and dinner. I would buy all sorts of food and get all sorts of advice on how to prepare it - usually not understanding half of the advice because the vendor was from another part of Italy and spoke in dialect. Some days I would just need a quick bite and that was when I would keep things simple and make my favorite dish: aglio e olio con peperoncini.
This dish seems to bring a smile to most Italians faces because anyone can make it (each their own special way I'm sure) and appreciate it for it's no-nonsense quality.
Here's how I make it:
Spaghetti in the pot of salted boiling water for 10 minutes (al dente)
In a skillet or wok (depending on amount of pasta) pour in some olive oil - enough to coat the pasta eventually - turn on the heat when the pasta has 4 minutes left
Prepare garlic (shopped to 1/4" wide chunks), and red pepper (chopped or flakes)
Prepare parsley (chopped fresh)
At the four minute mark heat the oil and begin to add the garlic and red pepper
The garlic will begin to brown - take it as far as you want (I like the garlic crunchy even though it is not so healthy to cook the oil too long...) then turn off the heat
Drain the pasta and throw it in the oil and flip it around
Add the parsley, some fresh parmigiano cheese and buon appetito!

Bicycle

2011-04-24T17:41:00.003+02:00

Often times while heading out to paint a specific place or subject, something along the way would provide enough distraction to change the plan. In this case, long afternoon shadows express the forms and parts of a bike leaning against the post - too interesting to let it pass by.

Small Paintings

2011-04-17T23:58:00.001+02:00

Slide preview of small format paintings

Journey

2011-04-16T03:28:00.005+02:00

Thinking about travel makes me think about maps. While they offer guidance on street names and landmarks, rarely will you encounter a map that will offer a bit more depth into the place it is outlining. Modern cities often don't require the added layer of information, as they are more organized and predictable, but ancient towns - such as Siena, Italy - can be mapped in many ways to enhance ones journey through its winding hills.
Apart the scale, contour and materials that make Siena stand out as one of Italy's most beautiful cities, it is it's famous festival Il Palio that makes the city map interesting to me. To over-simplify the event, it is a horse race around the main square - il Campo, and each of the 17 contrade (city wards) enter a horse and rider.
I created this coded map to better understand the division into these contrade and take my own little journey into the history of an amazing tradition.

Liquid Gold

2011-04-09T16:04:00.006+02:00

More than a basic ingredient in cooking, olive oil is one of my favorite ingredients in life. Homer called it 'liquid gold' - as it has a history of culinary, medicinal and magical uses. Having been fortunate enough to live near Cartoceto, the oil capital of Le Marche, the gridded landscape of olive tree orchards offered both visual interest and constant anticipation of the fall harvest and fesitvals each year. Some of the best bruschetta in the world!!

Italian Toy Store

2011-03-27T18:41:00.003+02:00

Walking through the cities and towns of Italy, it is always a welcome sight to come across one of the popular wooden toy shops with Pinocchio characters of all sizes positioned to make their escape and bring life and adventure to a new home. The shops also carry some amazing hand carved wooden clocks, furniture and even a full scale motorcycle - although Pinocchio is usually enough to make the little ones happy.

Happy Spring!

2011-03-20T15:16:00.003+01:00

Guinigi Tower - Lucca, Italy

Cappuccio

2011-03-12T20:14:00.005+01:00

One thing I learned pretty quick while in Fano was that there is an art to ordering a coffee. 'Un caffe' was , of course, my default order and as I would stir in a sugar packet, the orders that would follow always left me feeling short changed. 'Latte macchiato ben caldo senza schiuma' - my wifes order on our Sunday morning visit to the local breakfast spot always impressed me. Translated as a cup of milk stained by an espresso poured in, heated up but with little foam or steamed milk added. The 'barista' seemed to take it in stride, as orders like these are fairly common.Tall cups, glass cups, American style, and my usual order - the Cappuccino, or Cappuccio (pronounced Kapoocho) to the locals. The sounds, smells and preparation of a Cappuccio is an art form and when it arrives, typically before my wives more involved order, I begin the game of stirring it in a way that allows the colors to bleed into each other - prolonging the first sip as long as possible. While Italians wouldn't be caught dead ordering one after 10 am, I would occasionally enjoy one after lunch too - can you blame me??

Layer 2

2011-02-23T04:27:00.002+01:00

Layers of detail in Bologna

Layer

2011-02-22T02:08:00.002+01:00

An Italian market offering layers of detail, history and, of course, clothing.

Looking Back (and Up)

2011-02-05T22:32:00.003+01:00

Reversing direction along the main route in this Italian hill-town.

Il tempo volo . . . time flies!

2009-02-09T00:01:00.005+01:00

It seems fitting to post a new blog entry that deals with time, having taken so much of it off from this blog recently. Of course, a moving has been know to disrupt a thing or two. Hopefully this can mark a fresh start...
While the painting was not done with 'time' in mind, it seems like a fitting way to view it. The obvious reason - Big Ben front and center - is possibly the worlds most famous clock, although I didn't reference it once for time during my trip to London last year. A second time reference is the inclusion of The Eye in the image - who joined the London skyline just a short time ago (in city years). Finally, the colors in the sky can start to suggest time of day - in this case dusk, my favorite time to capture an image. Thanks for coming to the blog - have a nice time!

Recent Paintings

2008-04-13T08:45:00.000+02:00

Happy Spring

2008-03-23T23:18:00.001+01:00

Cartoceto, Italy

2008-02-26T23:44:00.004+01:00

Passing through the main piazza at street level, you enter the narrow passageways that form the organic plan of the historic center. The multiple levels that climb the hill along side the grids of olive trees are linked together by a wide stair that follows the jagged outline of the medieval wall. The stair has one of the longest runs in the area, offering multiple access points into the small center as well as views to the west and south.

Welcome Arianna!!

2008-02-21T09:42:00.002+01:00

born 18 February 2008
Fano, Italy

Fano Horizon

2007-12-21T16:34:00.002+01:00

While they lack the character of the cabins they replaced, the fisherman huts that sit along the pier in Fano do offer a rhythmic break to the flat horizon of the Adriatic. I have never actually seen them in action, so to speak, while the giant mast and system of guide wires suggest it may actually drop to the water and sail off one of these days. My thinking is that these sculptures on the horizon can be equated to tree houses, housing the 'fishermen' who head out for some 'fishing' but really just need to get out of the house and play a little briscola with his pals. The only thing missing is a sign saying "No Girls Allowed!"

Winter Fields

2007-12-16T13:23:00.001+01:00

* Repost for Illustration Friday - Cultivate 03/19/11

Waking up to a nice surprise - snow - made me appreciate the fact that I had recently painted the image above. The winter months here offer an amazing range of colors in the surrounding hills, as most have been tilled and seeded in November for the following spring. The dark, freshly ground earth gives way to a lighter, sun-dried beige color - although patches of dark tend to remain. The landscape itself becomes a watercolor image, offering a layers of color on the hills in stark contrast with the light blue winter sky. As I write this, the fresh layer of white is fading away to reveal once more the winter palette underneath.

Prints of this image are now available here: http://shdesign.imagekind.com/

Urbino and scale

2007-11-11T13:48:00.000+01:00

Urbino sits nestled in the hilly interior of northern Le Marche, a Renaissance gem surrounded by medieval hamlets. The town offers a series of hilly passages, flat squares and is home to the incredible Duke's Palace, a true architectural masterpiece. The human scale found within the palace interior and courtyards seem to extend into the town planning to create one of the most remarkable places in Italy. Bring your walking shoes if you do visit - while the scale of the town is very pedestrian, the Italian word "scale" (which means stair) is also a dominant feature and the climbs add an element of adventure to the walks.

Signs if Life

2007-10-11T07:05:00.000+02:00

Passing through some of the smaller towns and villages in the area, it sometimes seems that you are visiting a museum or exhibit on how life was several centuries ago. The streets are often bare, the sounds are often faint and hard to track down - the only signs of life are the peeks into the open windows, into the living spaces behind the historic facades. Depending on both the time of day and time of year, the amount of 'open' will vary as far as the multi-layered wall openings are concerned. The Italian shutter has been refined over the centuries to open just enough to accommodate the need for air and light to please any resident, while providing even more interest to the texture of the streetscape.

Le Marche meets Imagekind

2007-09-30T22:58:00.001+02:00

I have created an online gallery of prints available for purchase at Imagekind.com! The images are available in a selection of sizes, paper types (I recommend Somerset Velvet), framed or unframed and even on canvas. You can view the gallery HERE or click the link in the sidebar.

Fano Blues

2007-09-29T14:11:00.000+02:00

This view of the beach zone called Lido in Fano offers a nice contrast not typically seen at a beach. The brick facades of the row houses that serve as a backdrop to the sea and sand offer a reminder that the historic fabric of the walled center of town has related fragments stretching to the waterfront - historically an important part of Fano's character. The blues of the sea, sky and umbrellas gain strength against the earth tones of the architecture, sand and rolling hills just a few miles inland.
A recent renovation of the central residence in the historic backdrop has brought 'the blues' to several neighbors, who have taken legal action - extending the misery to the homeowners for choosing yet another shade of blue for their facade. I am a supporter of expressing your creativity in most cases, but this seems to lack any relevance - historically or artistically - perhaps an idea that just came out of the blue!

On the beaten path

2007-09-12T23:49:00.000+02:00

With so many small villages tucked in the surrounding hills, it is easy to miss certain elements of the small town we live in. Each day I walk a similar route to drop off my daughter at daycare and stop in for a cafe macchiato downtown, usually as fast as possible in order to get back to the pile of paper on my desk. With my trekking companion now entering her "what's that?" stage, the walks have become more of a journey of discovery. I like to think that I am somewhat observant of my surroundings and can generally see the beauty in the most banal of environments, but these walks have taken this to a new level. The simple act of crossing the old tracks, that once offered commuter service from Fano to Urbino, has turned into stories of history and nature - reminding me of my excursions during my childhood along the abandoned tracks near my home. It was during these walks that I really began to look at this house that sits along the Main Street in town - which is also the Roman road Via Flaminia. The house seems to be one the town elders and has a character that can only come with years of weathering and lack of attention - although it has recently caught my eye.

Fano Art Fair cont.

2007-08-03T14:53:00.001+02:00

Sales have been pretty good for June, lets hope they continue for August. Here are some of the paintings that have been sold during the 'Fano at Night' program. Planning a visit to Fano? I am displaying along Corso Matteotti adjacent to Piazza Amiani - see you there!

First Prize

2007-08-03T14:25:00.001+02:00

Yesterday was the annual 'painter for a day' contest in Fano - where competitors pick up a sheet of watercolor paper or a canvas at 9:00 am and return at 5:00 pm with a finished painting depicting Fano's coastline of historic center. After a dinner break and jury review, the award ceremony is held and this year my watercolor of the main piazza took top prize! Yahoo!

Fano dei Cesari

2007-07-26T11:09:00.000+02:00

This past weekend Fano hosted its annual festival called Fano dei Cesari, a celebration of its Roman roots. The 4 day festival reaches its high point on the final day when the 6 zones of Fano take part in a chariot race. It is amazing to see how a town can be transformed to host an event such as this, an event similar to the famous Palio di Siena. Lawyers, bankers, doctors and even the mayor dig deep into their wardrobes for the festival and dust off the toga or gladiator gear tucked deep inside adding some authenticity to the reenactment - although the true authenticity is the nearly 2000 year old Arch of Augustus acting as the primary backdrop for the event.

Fano Art Fair

2007-07-07T18:06:00.000+02:00

The historic center of Fano began its 2 month stretch of extending the hours of operation of most of the historic center shops and cafes until 11 pm on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays. July and August are the high tourism months and the center is full of energy. As part of the street activity, local artisans are invited to display their work/products along the main route through town. I am taking part this year, displaying some of my watercolors (for the first time) and have just completed the first week of the 8-week stretch. I picked a spot near some veterans of the art fair world to try to pick up some pointers on display tactics and lighting. While the aim is to sell some work, I really enjoy the people watching and Fano is an ideal place for after-dinner walks through the center.

Grapevine

2007-07-02T15:16:00.000+02:00

Stopping by my father-in-law's house over the weekend he had pointed out that the grapes are about a month ahead of schedule this year and should be ready for snacking on in about two weeks. The vine itself, however, caught my attention more than the news of the shifting schedule for maturation - the wild trunk twisting and shifting its way up to the support bars suggesting the trunk itself has little strength and has been deformed by gravity over time. Many summer meals have been shared beneath the foliage, with dessert an arms length away. Driving back through the rolling hills just a few minutes away, the rigid lines of vines seen in the distance, being cultivated for local wine makers, offer a stark contrast to the vines themselves once seen up close.

Vacation sketches

2007-06-28T11:45:00.001+02:00

Having returned from 2 weeks in the US, back to the 90 degree weather here in Italy, I have finally had a chance to put some images together from the trip. This was a rather busy trip, with time spent in Boston, Cape Cod and Philadelphia.
The major part of the first week was down in the Chestnut Hill area of Philadelphia for my sisters wedding. The section of Philly is beautiful and seems very livable for being so close to a major city. The area has a strong architectural character and a nice balance of green space. The wedding took place at the Valley Green Inn, which sits along an old access road, now a jogging/walking/bike path that seems to be the spot for the locals to fish, exercise and spy a wedding or two each weekend. Near the inn is a beautifully preserved covered bridge that offers a nice contrast with its barn red siding cutting through the green backdrop.
Passing through Boston on the way to Cape Cod allowed for a quick visit to the new ICA museum along the waterfront in the ever-changing Fort Point Channel district. The design is a nice addition to the city and the waterfront - although until the surrounding area is completed it looks a little strange from the land side.
Cape Cod is always nice, especially with Matilde in tow. Seeing her play in the tide pools was a special treat.
One strange thing was that this trip seemed to have an odd theme. Everywhere we went, there seemed to be turtles involved. On our second day back, one strolled into the scene of our cookout to entertain the kids, the bed and breakfast in Philly had several for lawn ornaments and when we arrived at the Cape there was one hanging out in the yard. If turtles symbolize determination, this seemed to be a fitting theme for such a busy 15 days.

Cartoceto, Italy

2007-06-07T00:07:00.000+02:00

During a visit to Cartoceto over the weekend to enjoy their vincisgrassi (lasagna) festival, I noticed the pathway to the church that I keep passing when I visit - but have never painted. The late afternoon light fighting through the arriving storm clouds brought out the highlights in the trees forming the pathway. Under normal circumstances, I would have found a nice location to sit and draw, but with the idea of them running out of the main ingredient of the evening while I was off doodling made me reconsider. Luckily I had my camera!

Fano Port Canal

2007-05-31T21:53:00.001+02:00

View from a very narrow bridge crossing the canal that connects the Lido beach area to the Port and the Sassonia beach area. In the distance are the fishermen cabins that have been renovated (poorly, if you ask me) and have lost much of the character that the originals had - at least from what I could get from the historic photos.

No Parking, unless you have a good reason...

2007-05-27T17:37:00.000+02:00

Italian Parking Rules:
1. If you are in a rush, you are free to park wherever/however you wish.
2. Crossing 2 lanes of traffic to parallel park along the opposite side of the street is acceptable, in fact you would be crazy to not take the open spot.
3. Drivers of either Fiat 500 or Smart cars are encouraged to park perpendicular to curb - to save space and impress bystanders.
4. The sidewalk is fair game (see #1)

Signs of Summer

2007-05-21T15:44:00.000+02:00

The wide open waterfront along the Adriatic begins to transform each spring, as orchards of umbrellas are planted in careful grids, each bagnino (part-lifeguard/part-concierge) preparing for summer. As the warm weather rolls in, and time permits, the seasonal owners begin to find their spot for the season and the umbrellas begin to bloom.
We have yet to 'rent' a space for the season, as prices can go from 400 - 800 euro per season, and sometimes higher. We typically settle for a couple towels and head to the free beach area, which is right next door actually. Of course with a soon-to-be-14 month old, it may be time to find our own little beach flower to help store all the beach toys we are accumulating.

A Watercolor Journey Through Le Marche, The Province of Pesaro and Urbino

2007-05-17T11:59:00.000+02:00

After moving to Italy in 2004, I began drawing & painting as a way to help see and discover my new surroundings. During that time I also began this weblog, to act as both a tool for organizing the drawings and also sharing them with other people interested in this region, in Italy, in drawing or who happen to just stumble across my site. This book is a compilation of many of these drawings, some which have been posted here and others not, and is my attempt to offer a glimpse into this beautiful region and the towns that have seen few tourists. You can find out more about the book here.

Green with Luck

2007-05-05T16:53:00.000+02:00

The fountain in Piazza XX Settembre in Fano has, as its centerpiece, Fortuna scultped out of copper - a copy of the original is in the museum behind the piazza. The orginal maintains its original copper color, while #2 has developed a green patina that I like so much about copper. An especially nice effect is when it begins to seep into the materials below, stone in this case, creating sort of roots that tie the two materials together only through years of contact.

Italian Neighbors

2007-05-04T18:54:00.000+02:00

I had read Italian Neighbors by Tim Parks prior to our move to Italy three years ago, which has become a sort of reference manual for coping with some of the many oddities that seem to fold themslves into everyday Italian life in a small town (or just Italian life in general). As described in the book, the things that happen here are things that happen everywhere - for the most part- a noisy pet next door, a line at the post office, attending the condominium meeting - although here there is something different about them . . . something Italian. I have racked my brain in trying to figure out what is so unique about the Italian daily life and it seems that it is the fact that nothing is taken at face value. A law is wirtten, but is not expected to be followed. You can no longer smoke in the cafe, but what defines 'in'? Standing in the doorway as to not miss the soccer game or the heated debate about last game while puffing away is pretty much outside. If the line in the grocery store is too long, then just go stand at the next register over and demand they open that one too, while everyone from the line next door makes a mad rush to be second. The traffic light is red, but it's Sunday at lunchtime and who is on the roads now? It is not that red. So, as I keep reminding my wife (who is from here), you can't try to understand it - just go with the flow.
Like our neighbor always says, "tanto, la vita e' cosi" - that's the way life goes.

Corinaldo, Le Marche

2007-05-03T18:56:00.000+02:00

Side gate to historic center

Fano - citta della fortuna

2007-04-16T12:30:00.000+02:00

Know in ancient times as Fanum Fortunae, refering the Temple of Fortuna once located in the center of the city, Fano today offers glimpses of its complicated history for those willing to take the time to look. The coat of arms illustrated above is located in the Corte Malatestiana built under the ruling Maletesta family in the 14th century. Serving as an endpoint to the Via Flaminia from Rome, evidence of Roman occupation dating back to 9 AD are still intact and intergrated into the fabric of the center offering a nice backdrop for an evening passeggiata.

Green Man

2007-04-08T11:26:00.000+02:00

Looking closely at the ornate detailing of a Renaissance church like the Santa Maria Novella in Orciano, Italy, you just might find someone looking back. Hidden within the surrounding foliage, at the columns capital in this case, the small sculpted face is what's called a green man. They are used in many cultures for many reasons, although a common theme is a link to nature, life and rebirth - which makes it a fitting attribute to the Renaissance detailing. It is one of those things that once you start to look for, you will be surprised how many you will find.... that feeling of always being watched could be right on!

Happy Spring

2007-04-07T23:17:00.000+02:00

Happy Spring, Think Green

Festa!

2007-04-01T23:59:00.000+02:00

April 01, 2007 :
It was a big day for celebrations here in Calcinelli today, with our little Matilde turning 1 and the town hosting their Festa della Primavera (Spring festival). Although it still felt like winter was hanging around, the sensation of a giant birthday party for our daughter made it all the more enjoyable. It always impresses me the many functions of the 'piazza' here in Italy, normally central parking in the center of our town - but easily accomodating a giant slide, bumper cars, trampolines, swings and a small stage for some local music. Another thing that impresses me is how smart a one year old is. Within the last two weeks she has picked up walking (max. about 6 feet), waving and saying ciao-ciao and blowing a kiss (those of you on Lufthansa Flight 422 last Monday can testify to that). She has provided us with 365 days of enjoyment and is a big hit in our little town here (partly because she's 50% American, but mostly because she is bellissima) Buon Compleanno & Happy Birthday Mati!
Happy Spring too.

High Tech meets Low Tech

2007-03-10T00:14:00.000+01:00

Dryers are not a common feature in Italian homes, as the energy costs are rather high and homes are generally not laid out to accommodate them, as washers are incorporated into a bathroom. What is common, and possibly one of the top priorities in the design, is outdoor space for hanging clothes.
When we first saw our condo and I saw the series of balconies (2nd floor unit) as some nice outdoor 'rooms' - one gets nice morning light, one afternoon light, the third more private. I was quickly corrected of their use, however, when we settled in and the first loads of wash were done and quickly carted out to these 'rooms' to be hung to dry, limiting my outdoor kitchen/dining plans to a small grill tucked in the corner. I have, of course gotten used to the idea, and come winter, I throw my jeans into the hamper to bid them farewell for a weeks vacation on the terrace. Many excursions have been cut short in order to zip home to bring in the clothes as a storm began to roll in and extend the vacation.
Last summer, Wired magazine published an article about something very similar. It seems that near Milan, a service had been set up to offer a free text messaging service with the days forecast relevant to laundry. A number scale is provided to gauge the days drying factor and alerts when to get the clothes in. You can read the article here.

La luna rossa - the red moon

2007-03-05T13:39:00.000+01:00

The clear weather on Saturday night allowed for a perfect view of the eclipse, nicknamed the red moon here. Once hidden in the shadows the moon takes on a range of colors, with the strongest being a red-orange tint. Next one is set to happen in 2026.... in case you missed it.

Communication - Senza Parole (without words)

2007-02-25T00:03:00.000+01:00

Anyone who has travelled to Italy, or met an Italian, has probably seen the gestures used to communicate an unspoken feeling or add emphasis to something said. The six examples shown are a small fraction of this language, although some of the more common ones I have seen. Two memories stand out when I think about the gestures.
The first was my introduction to the hand-biting-give-me-some-of-that ... I was walking to work in Florence along the Arno, and happened to be behind a very beautiful woman. As I broke my stare of the surrounding scenery, where was I?, I noticed a delivery van passing and the driver was laying on the horn - literally leaning into the windshield/dashboard junction - gnawing on his hand while staring at the oblivious woman in front of me. When I arrived at work, my assumption of the meaning was confirmed.
The second instance involves the what-a-pain gesture... I think. We were at a dinner party with some friends and some of the men were talking about their work. One was describing his newly implemented inter-office memo policy - or something similar - and began to express his dislike for the system. He had both hands in his pants pockets and as he started really laying into this new system some gestures were in order ... problem. I am not sure if he was tired or his hands were actually stuck but the gestures started without the hands.... although if it was the gesture I was thinking, they were pretty much in the right area. What evolved was possibly a new or hybrid gesture which involved hands tucked into the pockets and the arms flapping around similar to when a magician is underwater in a straight jacket and the he starts to think he may not get out. What he was saying during all this escapes me, I was too distracted waiting for a white rabbit to be pulled from a pocket.

Edicola

2007-02-22T11:58:00.000+01:00

The Italian newsstand - home to local, regional, national & international newspapers and magazines, DVDs, Cds, books, toys, postcards, bus tickets, even clothing on occasion. Typically located at a busy intersection to accommodate the pedestrian traffic, it is hardly a place for browsing - although it is difficult not to.
As a way to increase sales, many magazines will offer gifts with a purchase - a pasta spoon with a cooking magazine, a DVD with a lifestyle magazine, etc. More elaborate gifts can also be available, such as a motorized model airplane with a hobby magazine - offered in pieces with each issue....'coming in March - landing gear!'
It is not uncommon to scan across the magazines to see a design magazine next to a celebrity exposed magazine (a favorite of my barber) next to a special edition life story of the Pope. If there is must-see place to hit on your next trip to Italy, be sure to pay a visit to the little green cultural center on the busiest corner in town.

London sketches

2007-02-07T05:51:00.000+01:00

I finally made it to London, a city I have been planning on visiting for some time now. I met up with 2 friends from college and we spent a long weekend seeing the city and catching up. The range of architectural periods that stand side by side is always nice, when done well, and there are countless examples to visit (good and bad). Mixing our tour between the major sights, museums and some less touristy spots like Camden made for a great visit, although hanging out with friends over some pints can make for a great time an any city, the scenery just added to great time. The sketches are showing Camden Street, Fleet Street, Gerrard Street in Chinatown and the Tower Bridge. They are done on 140 lbs Fabriano hot pressed paper, 5 x 7. A couple photos are here.

Casa Cantoniere

2007-01-30T12:16:00.000+01:00

Located alongside many secondary state roads throughout Italy are case cantoniere or case ANAS (a sort department of public works in Italy). These houses are typically red with a contrasting white marker on the facade indicating its location. A worker would live here and manage all work on 'his' stretch of road, sort of a extreme adopt a highway program as seen in the US. The red is in strong contrast with the adjacent homes, typically in brick/stone or earth tone stucco. I think they are still in use, although upkeep seems like a point of argument between the resident and state as many are in pretty rough shape... but it sort of adds to the character I guess.

12 year old sketchbook

2007-01-19T09:43:00.000+01:00

Finding an old sketchbook is like finding an old set of photos, each image has a story and the sequence of drawings help bring back memories that would otherwise be lost. In 1995 I had the opportunity to spend a semester in the South of France as part of an exchange program between Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston and the architecture school in Montpellier, France. This was the first time I tried to use sketching as a form of seeing and capturing normally performed by a camera (which also was quite active - 32 rolls of film I think). The idea of stopping, sitting and sketching rather than slowing down, pointing and shooting helped 'see' the places I would visit and understand what it was that made me stop and look. Other trips during the 4 months included travel through Spain and Italy, a couple of the sketches are from Venice and Rome. The other sketches are from Boston, showing the Christian Science Center - one of my favorite urban spaces - and the rear court of Trinity Church, two places that a 'saw' with new eyes on my return from abroad.

PACE

2006-12-27T15:16:00.000+01:00

The Italian word pace means peace. A common sight in Italy is the rainbow colored flag with the word pace centered and in white text. The strong colors bring some life to the dark, narrow streets of a typical historic center. This is an example from Fabriano.

Happy Holidays - Buone Feste ! !

2006-12-19T19:34:00.000+01:00

Winter fruit

2006-12-01T13:52:00.000+01:00

As the layers of gray seem to wash out the colors of fall, the kaki seems to be a reminder that there is still life in the garden. As the trees foliage turns the typical autumn colors before falling, the fruit begin its much slower process of ripening, remaining on the tree well into the winter months. The bright red-orange fruit appear to be stretching the bare branches to near breaking point until they are the red, ready to be eaten, color and are picked one by one. The skin is peeled back and fruit scooped out..... buonissimo!!

Longevity

2006-11-21T16:27:00.000+01:00

A recent study placed Italy second in Europe in terms of longevity, with the marchigiani (residents of Le Marche) leading the regions of Italy. In fact, it has also been written that by the year 2008, there will be a greater number of Italians retired than those working. Most mornings I will try to get out for a walk with Matilde and we will see our retired neighbors keeping busy in the garden or hudled up for some chit chat on a bench along side the road. Typically men, the discussions can vary from weather and agriculture to cars and women and are spoken in the thickest dialect I have heard. The illustration above shows a typical scene, in this case a group of women waiting for the start of a local festival.

Cagli

2006-11-18T01:14:00.000+01:00

a view of the travertine fountain in the main piazza

Flying Machine

2006-11-18T00:45:00.000+01:00

At least once a week the faint buzzing sound marks a new journey for our local da Vinci and his flying machine. It was during a recent drive that I finally saw the runway and oddly shaped shipping container that houses the contraption during its grounded period, just down the road actually. Watching the go kart with wings hover over the hilltowns I can only visit on foot makes me a bit envious of his vantage point, as well as the sensation of flying on such a clear afternoon. I do wonder, though, why he always takes the same route...so much to see and not alot of traffic up there.

Drawing on Experience is one year old!

2006-11-15T09:15:00.000+01:00

Recent travels

2006-11-14T00:02:00.000+01:00

It is always nice when people visit, it gets me to try do more sightseeing than normal. While my mom is here to see her 7 month old granddaughter, the weather has been to nice not to head outdoors. The sketches above are from San Marino, a view of the Piazza della Liberta, and two views of Pesaro. I always find it interesting to see what can be learned about someone based on there laundry out to dry... it seems there is a new member in that family as well.

IKEA

2006-11-13T23:51:00.000+01:00

Those of us in Le Marche no longer have to trek up to Bologna for some wallet friendly furnishings now that we have one in our backyard... the trademark blue and yellow do seem a bit out of context in the hills inland of Ancona, but it is nice to find a 6 Euro wok!

Fiera nazionale del Tartufo

2006-11-06T22:47:00.000+01:00

The national truffle fair happens in Acqualagna this time each year, bringing people and appetites to this small town from all over. The main piazza is lined with booths allowing locals to offer a taste of there truffle dishes, both the black truffle and much sought after white. Arriving from the East, on Via Flaminia, the Gola del Furlo is always impressive (photo)

Mombaroccio, Italy

2006-10-28T20:56:00.000+02:00

13th Century walled village inland from Pesaro. Illustrated are the entry portal and main square. Photos posted here

Barchi, Italy

2006-10-03T14:36:00.000+02:00

While it is never quiet with Italians around, Sundays can usually offer a "less noisy" afternoon walk in one the nearby hilltowns. All the shops are closed and the sounds of the soccer match playing in the central cafe echo off the sturdy walls and down the narrow streets. Of course, this early in the soccer season it is still pretty quiet.

Festa dei Fiori - Fano, Italy

2006-09-23T21:35:00.000+02:00

Botanophobiacs should stay clear of Fano this weekend as the historic center is hosting the annual flower festival. As fall begins to set in it is a pleasant sight to see the range of color and texture set against the backdrop of the centers architecture.

Festa dell'Aquilone/Kite Festival - Urbino, Italy

2006-09-04T16:58:00.000+02:00

The 10 contrade (neighborhoods) of Urbino gathered on a hill just North of the historic center, this past weekend, to compete for the 51st time. The blue sky became the backdrop for the simple, color coded kites, all trying to reach the highest point of the day. By late afternoon the field was covered in string and kite parts, the casualties of the 2 day event.

Monteriggioni, Tuscany

2006-09-04T16:54:00.000+02:00

walled village in the Tuscan hills

Ferragosto

2006-08-15T22:45:00.000+02:00

Want to play a guessing game? Since most of Italy is on vacation week ( today is Ferragosto), I am trying to avoid too much travel - which means no drawing. Instead, I thought I would offer a puzzle for this weeks Illustration Friday. Any guesses what this image is????

Back to Italy

2006-08-04T22:34:00.000+02:00

We made it back to Italy in time for the annual painting contest in Fano, Pittore Per Un Giorno (painter for a day). This year I tried to capture the view North from the port - it received an honorable mention!

opposites

2006-07-25T01:59:00.000+02:00

a posting of the view from the drawing - for IF

Dennis, MA

2006-07-19T01:00:00.000+02:00

Cape Cod, MA

2006-07-11T14:38:00.000+02:00

our summer vacation in the US offered a nice change in the skyline...

Urbino

2006-06-29T20:35:00.000+02:00

Copper downspout at perimeter wall

Wheat Fields

2006-06-18T00:10:00.000+02:00

During the late Spring and early Summer, the once green fields of grain become golden brown and begin to dance in the wind with the poppy flowers that have found there way into the swaying mass. Posted for Illustration Friday.

sketches of Florence

2006-06-14T16:55:00.000+02:00

Elisa

2006-06-03T13:14:00.000+02:00

pixel portrait for IF

Saltara, Italy

2006-06-03T12:34:00.000+02:00

two variations of the view from the South

Design Award

2006-06-02T09:33:00.000+02:00

Last fall I entered a design competition called Designare Dramaticus 2005, calling for entries that propose new methods of utilizing the photo engraved concrete system developed by Intaglio Composites. Recently, I learned that my entry, entitled 'On The Rise', received a 5th place award.
My proposal applied the photo engraved panels to the risers of concrete stairs, bringing artwork to a typically stagnant location. More images here.

Urbino, Italy

2006-05-23T18:59:00.000+02:00

sketches during a recent walk

Pantheon, Rome

2006-04-18T23:02:00.000+02:00

Through the oculus at the domes center, a spot of natural light enters the massive interior volume providing glimpses of the details and materials of the roof, walls and floor as it glides across the interior surface.

Speed

2006-04-13T11:41:00.000+02:00

The Ape (pronounced Ah-pay) is a close relative to the Vespa, the classic Italian motor scooter - both made by Piaggio and both named after speedy little insects: the bee and the wasp.
Two classes of Ape seem to exist. The first is the utilitarian version, aged and very plain, driven by a equally aged and plain farmer to transport produce to and from the markets. The second is driven by teenage boys, who opt for the Ape rather than the scooter, to offer both enclosure and a stereo to tempt the young ragazze. It is when the younger owner takes the extra steps to 'pimp out' the Ape that the idea of speed can be connected to such a vehicle.

Matilde

2006-04-10T14:43:00.000+02:00

our daughter, born 01 April 2006 - benvenuta!

Happy Spring

2006-03-31T18:31:00.000+02:00

This is the front of a postcard I designed to announce my new studio last year. The image is from a photo I took in Lucca, Italy - I just added some green. Happy Spring!

Cartoceto, Italy

2006-03-28T15:41:00.000+02:00

located in the hills near Fano, Cartoceto is famous for olive oil. The surrounding hills are peppered with olive trees, arranged neatly in grids, and the historic center provides vistas to the east and south . Shown above are drawings of the Palazzo dei Popolo, a view from the south and a plan of the center. More images can be seen here.

Notre Dame, Paris

2006-03-24T22:30:00.000+01:00

walking around Notre Dame you are never out of eyeshot from one of the little monsters above...
posted for IF

Paving Pattern - Urbino, Italy

2006-03-20T00:16:00.000+01:00

The architectural detail on the walls continues beneath your feet... posted for IF

Montemaggiore al Metauro

2006-03-12T19:55:00.000+01:00

A small hilltown that has been a focal point to me since I arrived in Le Marche. It marks the start of a network of 'castles in the sky' connected through their monolithic character, perched atop the rolling hills of Le Marche, each rich with its own unique history. Walking through Montemaggiore's small streets or 'vicoli' it is hard to imagine that from the northern edge in August 1944, Winston Churchill and Generals Alexander and Leese overlooked the battles along the Gothic Line in the valley of the Metauro River below. The circular plan, profile and entry path are illustrated above. A view of the central piazza is here.

Carnevale - Fano

2006-03-04T20:54:00.000+01:00

Fano held its annual Carnevale during February, which is smaller than the more well known Venice and Viareggio events, but is enjoyable none the less. Children arrive in costume and 'i carri' float up and down the avenue into the evening.

Illustration Friday - Tea

2006-02-27T00:04:00.000+01:00

It has been a long February, a move that should have taken a weekend has stretched into a month. Things are finally returning to normal and 3 weeks without an internet connection has been interesting. Like many things in Italy, it is a test of patience... but usually worth the wait - like a cup of tea.

Illustration Friday - Chair

2006-02-06T18:33:00.000+01:00

The past week has been chock full of Ikea diagrams as we are moving a few towns inland and have nearly all new furnishings (since we sold everything in the US before we left over a year and a half ago). The do-it-yourself diagrams have been my reading material for the past week and we have bypassed any new releases at the video store to watch the Ikea kitchen construction video over and over - they make it look so easy. Still some work to do (like half of the kitchen) - but the chairs are done!

Illustration Friday - Cats

2006-01-21T08:02:00.000+01:00

If I had a cat I would also have these . . .
I'm more of a dog person.

Urbino

2006-01-18T13:01:00.000+01:00

secondary entry to Urbino center

E is for...

2006-01-13T18:49:00.000+01:00

My wife Elisa has beautiful eyes, they were the first thing that caught my eye. The second, of course, was her accent. For Illustration Friday

Toscana

2006-01-12T16:41:00.000+01:00

I came across a sketchbook from 2003 while going through some boxes recently. It was from a trip in Tuscany when I started bringing along some watercolor supplies on trips. San Gimignano from a nearby hill, il campo in Siena and a map of the 17 contrade of Siena - which relates to the famous Palio festival.

Sea

2006-01-06T21:12:00.000+01:00

Fisherman cabins in Fano, for Illustration Friday

Waiting Room - Fano

2006-01-05T23:01:00.000+01:00

This morning my wife and I spent 4 hours at the hospital for some tests, she is 7 months pregnant. The test center is quite an interesting place, it sort of captures alot of the common frustrations of Italy - all in one room. The retired population of Fano remains in Fano, usually in the home they have spent most of their life. Assisted living centers, nursing homes, relocation to Florida ... not so popular here. With the working life behind them, they can now get out and enjoy the town they have grown old with - and yes, form some lines. The Italian line is something that I will never get used to and the waiting room at the testing center is a good example. The line tends to grow in circumference rather than in length, expanding to fit the space between the ropes or the width of the service counter. No one will get in line until about 3 minutes before the window opens, then it is a free for all. I am about 190cm tall (about 6'3") so I always try to get right in the middle of it for the enjoyment of my wife watching from the sidelines. Once people cycle through the tests, the waiting room becomes a mass of bunched up sleeves and needle punctures being looked after. I passed the time by wathcing the line form and break as waves of new Fanesi arrive, sketching faces and bodies, diagrams of the line and even a view of the Roman arch - the ancient front door to the city.

Flavor

2005-12-31T11:17:00.000+01:00

For Illustration Friday, reflecting on the flavors of the holiday meals last weekend.
Buon Appetito and Happy New Year!

H o l i d a y [billie] - Illustration Friday

2005-12-23T17:08:00.000+01:00

happy holidays from italy!

Happy Holidays

2005-12-22T10:39:00.000+01:00

Our card for this year - Buone Feste!

Sunrise, Sunset

2005-12-20T17:22:00.000+01:00

Since returning from the US last week, I have been waking up very early for some reason. Aftering seeing this one morning, I have spent more time looking to the horizon. Above are some sunrise/sunset sketches.

San Lorenzo in Campo

2005-12-20T17:16:00.000+01:00

Views along street leading to historic core - photos

Imagine - Illustration Friday

2005-12-16T19:13:00.000+01:00

Imagine if a house in the hills didn't cost so much. Returning from a recent trip to the US, I read an article in the International Herald Triubune (free at the Lufthansa terminal) about low-cost pre-fabricated housing. Prior to moving to Italy I had participated in a design competition for a similar concept.

Orciano, Italy

2005-12-16T18:49:00.000+01:00

One of the many hill top villages in the region. The name is said to have come from a terracotta pot (orcio) in which coins were donated to the god Giano, in ancient times. Recognizable from the surrounding hills Orciano has a recognizable profile with three towers, including the bell tower of Santa Maria Novella.

Sketches from Florence

2005-12-16T18:33:00.000+01:00

Sketches from trips during the past year while collaborating with a Florentine architect. Most were done walking to and from the office - not a bad commute.