Watercolor and watercolor pencil on watercolor paper. Still want to work on it more….but I like how it is coming.

The thing about European cities like Paris, Rome, Venice, Madrid and Lisbon is that they are overwhelming in their amazingness. They are like Disneylands for tourists, only 5000 times better and have history and substance on top of that. The “post-covid” joy is palpable amidst the crush of summer tourists. And the onslaught of incredible sites makes it difficult to decide what to paint with only a couple days in this city before we take off for Maastricht in the Netherlands…..tomorrow morn.

I finally decided on the beautiful view of the above painting. It checked all the boxes….including a cafe not 20 paces away, and a couple musicians to regale me for the last hour. Below is the view and the process. After I did the drawing (using my new “watercolor pencils”!). I reached for my paints and realized I had no palette to mix them on. 15 meters below I noticed an errant tray from the near by cafe lying on the ground. Voila….a palette! (Notice the small cervja (beer) next to the newly acquired tray/palette in the 2nd photo).

As I said at the top, I still want to work on this some more. Watercolor is very different than oils. Both are tricky in their own way….at least for this eternal beginner.

Portugal- I will miss you. You have endeared me with your warmth. I hope to return soon.

LISBOA!