samantha rueter 7/3/16 samantha rueter 7/3/16

My Traveling Sketchbook: Transformative Moments

Visiting the Cinque Terre, five cities nestled on the coast of Italy, was an incredibly influential experience as both a traveler and an artist. The textured, rocky landscape and crystal clear Mediterranean Sea- bolding pressing the saturated views of houses built into the mountains.. all work to create jaw-dropping views for any visitor. These cities pull at your heart strings and beg you to stay, just a little longer...

Traveling has always fulfilled a sense of happiness in my life. Filled those gaping empty spaces, aided the distraction from uncomfortable places. This past trip, several years after my last abroad experience, was filled with many eye-opening, transformative moments. Has there ever been a place, a moment, a time- where you thought to yourself, "I have to remember this..."? Where you stood longing and wishing to put all that your feeling in a little glass jar, saving it for a darker time?

There are moments, no matter how fleeting or how significant, where we can detach ourselves from all that has defined us. The things we feel have weighed us down, changed our thought process- made us second guess our self worth. A past relationship, a stressful job, a traumatic experience. For some, these moments may be scarce, or even brief. Others may be fortunate enough to revel in this mindset their entire life. For me, traveling has always pushed my boundaries and the way I view myself. Forced me to open my heart to new experiences, embrace the present, and often reminds me that I am truly the one in control of my thoughts and emotions. But sometimes, most times- this is always possible. And it almost always, starts, with letting go...

Growing up in The Hudson Valley, New York- hiking has always been a part of who I am. When you grow up in a place surrounded by nature, breathtaking views and world-famous hiking trails, you often forget how fortunate you are. And who knew, that I would have such a life-changing moment, all while hiking- yet hundreds of miles away, across the world.

Because of our long travels and small bags, we were unable to pack hiking supplies other than basic sneakers, maps and travel water bottles. But as soon as we knew that many parts of the Cinque Terre could be hiked, we couldn't turn away..

It was an overcast early morning and we had just finished up some breakfast before exploring the next town, Riomaggiore. Dozens of hikers piled off the train and were setting off on their journey...it all looked too inviting. So, in the spur of the moment (clearly, in my dress and sandals) the sun finally came out and we decided we would take on a hiking trail between Riomaggiore and Manarola.

The start of the hike was the most difficult. We found ourselves trudging up incredibly steep and narrow stone stairs built into the mountain side, for a good half a mile. Little to no railings, and here I am- holding up my dress, watching my every step in (not so great) fifteen dollar sandals. Stopping every so often, you could see through the brush that you were slowly climbing higher and higher, towards the peak.

Once past the trees and bushes, you make your way to one of the most spectacular views, one that for me, was one of the best in my life. Hiking that unsteady path suddenly became much more rewarding.

Photographs do not always do a scene or a feeling justice. The sun peaked through the clouds, reflecting on certain areas of the ocean..creating a saturated emerald shine. Mountains below that we had just hiked seemed so small and irrelevant, the wind blew a cool breeze through my hair. I was in another world, miles and oceans away from everything I knew; standing at the top of this mountain above the Mediterranean Sea. And there, standing next to me, was the man I loved more than anything in this world.

There are moments you cannot fully freeze in a photograph, put a price on, or describe to another human with the same emotion and conviction. For me, this moment meant everything. I felt free. Free to be one with the world around me, to be who I truly am in the deepest part of my soul...free to be happy.

And these feelings, these realizations, they are not because of traveling or hiking a mountain in the Cinque Terre. These moments are present because I have finally dug out every inch of uncertainty and bitterness from the dusty parts of my soul. I am who I am, and that is enough for me. Moments like these, are life changing. And there are always there, waiting....to be experienced..

The way back down, towards Manarola, was just as breathtaking...

There are many trails and places to explore all through out this area. If you are a hiker, an outdoors enthusiast, or just longing for a new place with fresh air.. visit, explore, and get lost.

"A ship at a harbor is safe. But that is not what ships are for.."

samantha rueter 5/24/16 samantha rueter 5/24/16

My Traveling Sketchbook: A Walk Through Amsterdam

As the Netherlands' capital, Amsterdam is an extremely historic and artistic city- visited by nearly 3.5 million travelers a year. The views of intricate architecture, canal system, street markets, and bike travel left me breathless. With only two days to explore, I decided to ditch sleep (push through some serious jet lag), and begin to explore the city's exquisite character and charm.

Known for beautiful canal houses and architectural charm

Our hotel of choice: HotelNotHotel

As an artist, I cannot tell you how grateful I am that my fiancé researched and found this unique place to stay. Each room in the hotel isn't like any other "hotel room" you've stayed in before- they are all created by designers who allow you to experience a stay unlike any other. Our room entrance was a hidden bookcase, like something you see in a James Bond movie. ( I had to memorize the books on our shelf, just to be sure I was pushing open the right door) Others include an actual tram car, crows nest, or printed house.

Front entrance of Hotel Not Hotel. They even offer bike rentals! (Which you'll want to do, it's perfect for exploring the city.)

Each room is very little over 100sq feet, but the rest of the hotel is created to function as one large living room. The downstairs is filled with great nooks and comfy spots to read a book, fill a journal, listen to some tunes, or indulge creativity. The restaurant bar is as unique as its name, "Kevin Bacon" (yes, the actor) The all-around quirkiness of this place is exactly why we fell in love. AND- the community showers/toilets are extremely clean, which is always a plus.

One of the intricately designed rooms- an actual tram

Breakfast is served at the Kevin Bacon restaurant

The entire upstairs is styled as a public library, and the room entrances are "hidden" doors.

After checking in to our hotel, we grabbed coffees and headed to Vondelpark, one of the most famous parks in the Netherlands. This park is loved by both locals and tourists, filled with joggers, bikers, rollerbladers, families, and dog walking. We were amazed by how many dogs roamed free- well trained and always returning to their owners. Many locals would strike up conversation and encouraged a game of fetch with their furry friends. How could you say no?! On top of the beautiful 47 green acres, there are also beautiful sculptures, gardens, and an open air theatre.

Being the chilliest part of our trip, we had to stop at a local market and purchase scarves. Grabbing a coffee to go often kept us warm, and encouraged the 15+ mile walk/bike ride each day. EVERYONE rides bikes in Amsterdam, it is a favorite means of transportation for locals; and has me wondering why the United States isn't as "travel savvy" as the Netherlands.

There were too many great restaurants and local cafés to name! One little spot that stuck out the most to me was "Jacketz"- home to the best baked potatoe my lips have ever touched. A quaint atmosphere and a unique twist on dinner is what you'll find in this small corner restaurant. "Jacketz" offers 1lb potatoes with numerous fillings and toppings (I chose the chicken salad and garlic sauce)- and I guarantee you won't be able to finish!

The inviting upstairs seating of "Jacketz" restaurant

Many trips, I try to stay far from museums or large tourist attractions- but there are some I can't resist! Example: The Vincent Van Gogh Museum. My favorite artist of all time; the one I have studied and idolized since I was a little girl. And let me tell you, this iconic display did not disappoint. As most museums, you are unable to take photos in undesginated areas. But this museum is filled with work all through out van Gogh's lifetime, hundreds of letters to his brother Theo, and family history/biography.

Incredible fine art galleries to explore

Amsterdam is absolutely, without a doubt, a city for artistic inspiration and historical significance. Until next time.

Next, catching our 7am flight to Prague.

Stay Tuned

xo S

samantha rueter 5/19/16 samantha rueter 5/19/16

Inside An Artists' Bag: Travel Supplies For Artists

Traveling Artist "Must-Haves"

I often find when traveling, I could bring bags and BAGS of art supplies. "What if I need this... What if I run out of that?" Each trip, your supplies can and will vary, depending on where you're going: what you can fit, what is allowed on airlines, etc.

On road trips, my bag may look differently than seen below. Many times i'll throw in small tubes of Acrylic or Gouache, paintbrushes, and maybe even another lens. For this trip overseas, I'm limited, not only by what is allowed in my bag; but what will actually FIT as well.

To avoid the heavy fees, lost luggage, and to dilute the hassle of airport waiting time, my advice is to travel with a carry on.

Creative Supplies for 17 Days in Europe:

<< As Seen Above:

Koi Water Colors, Pocket Field Sketchbook

Conti Crayons (Paris)

Nikon Lens 55-200mm

Pigma Micron Archival Ink Pen Set

Derwent Sketching Pencils

Pentel Arts Aquash Water Brush Set

Sponge, Eraser

Moleskin Sketchbooks 12 x 8.5 and 3.5 x 5.5

Once discovering Moleskin Sketchbooks, there's no going back. One of my favorite "always on me" items. They offer many convenient sizes perfect for travel.

Travel water brushes make painting outdoors and on the go simple and clean.

Rather than bringing a purse, I use my messenger travel bag as my extra item on the plane. Several years ago, I received the OXA Messenger Bag as a gift, and haven't parted with it since. It has more than six large pockets- perfect for holding iPads, sketchbooks, and even my camera; all in separate compartments. One of the zippered pockets is specifically designed for cards, passports and IDs. I would definitely recommend this bag to ANY traveler.