My Traveling Sketchbook: Home of the Renaissance

Each time I step foot in Florence, Italy, I'm instantly seduced by the immense amount of history, culture, and world renowned art works. Many of the world's most famous, inspirational works reside here in Florence- and are just as breathtaking in real life as any textbook photo. As the birthplace of the Renaissance, around every corner is another masterpiece worthy of 'ahhhhs' and 'oooohs'. Observing works by the masters- Michelangelo, Masaccio, Brunelleschi, Ghiberti, and Raphael- just to name a few- is life changing and is something that should not be missed. 

There is nothing ordinary, colorless or dull about Florence. With enough art to visit for a lifetime- each time I go back, I am blessed with experiencing something new and exciting. When heading to Florence, keep your sketchbook ready, your eyes open, and your walking shoes handy--you'll have plenty of ground to cover. 

To discuss each and every artwork found in Florence- I would be writing a textbook rather than a blog post. However, here, in the heart of the city, lies one the most extraordinary works of art; one that I am totally awe-struck by and in shock of it's beauty, each and every time I am graced by it's presence. Santa Maria del Fiore

Decades later, Brunelleschi's Dome is still a mystery to the art world. Captivating, brilliant, majestic. This Cathedral is easily one of my most prized sights, so large and aw-inspiring that leaves you speechless. Breathless. The world is blessed to share such beauty. 

With enough intricate detail to observe for days on end..

My "must see" list of artworks: 

1. Santa Maria del Fiore + Duomo

2. The Floretine Pieta // “The Deposition” Museo dell’Opera del Duomo // Michelangelo 

3. David // The Galleria dell'Accademia // Michelangelo

4. The Slaves //  “"The Awakening Slave”,“The Young Slave”,“The Bearded Slave, The Atlas" // The Galleria dell'Accademia // Michelangelo

5. Gates of Paradise // Piazza del Duomo // Lorenzo Ghiberti 

6. Medici Hall of Maps // Palazzo Vecchio

7. La Primavera // Uffizi Gallery // Botticelli 

8. Birth of Venus // Uffizi Gallery // Botticelli 

9. Annunciation // Piazza SS Annunziata // Fra Angelico

 

"David" never...ever, disappoints. 

Our AirBnB only added to the beauty of Florence, and I would recommend anyone to stay in Michele's care. With an incredible host, wonderful character, and a serene location...we definitely will be staying again.. 

https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1103234

More Soon. xo S

'Undercurrents' Thoughts- Gathering ocean movement and inspiration

As my release approaches for my latest series, 'Undercurrents', I wanted to share some captures which turned to inspiration. As long as I have been painting, many of my creations are reactions to the world around me. I have always absorbed the natural world in amazement, in awe of it's endless beauty, even in the most unexpected places. 

Even as a young girl, the ocean has always been my sanctuary. Soothing, alluring, tranquil.  

After spending a month abroad near the emerald waters, followed by moving to the coast, my latest creative thoughts began to change. Each time I picked up a brush, I found myself eager to translate the ocean's great movement. Many of these photographs are taken off the coast of Italy- representing the vastness, power, and motion of water. 

Floating between the waves, my body weightless, I feel sheltered- invulnerable. There are not always places or times in this chaotic life where we are able to appear present and grounded. But here, in the water, I am forceful and sound.

un·der·cur·rent- (noun)

1. an underlying feeling or influence, especially one that is contrary to the prevailing atmosphere and is not expressed openly.

un·der·cur·rent- (noun)

2. a current of water below the surface, moving in a different direction from any surface current.

" For whatever we lose, ( like a you or a me ), it's always  o u r s e l v e s  we find in the sea... " e.e cummings

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..

View fullsize

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...

Our favorite moment, at the top!

Unfinished sketches 

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.."

My Traveling Sketchbook: Colors of the Cinque Terre

The world surrounding an artist will always work it's way into their process. Whether it's an experience, the color of a flower, your relationship with a friend, or a texture found in your apartment- all that's around you generates new creative flow. At times, I'll see something, eager to wrap my head around it, and immediately bring it back to the studio. But of course, not all of our inspirations are conscious decisions. Not all situations are alike. When you travel as an artist, do you find it to be more difficult... or rather easy to pull inspiration from all that surrounds you?

Spending several days exploring The Cinque Terre left me swooning over the brightly colored houses, steep terrace vineyards, and intricate hiking trails. 

The last several years, my mind has been drawn to subtle, deep colors. Vibrant strokes of color had never interested me in the studio. That is, until now. 

Visiting The Cinique Terre left me breathless, and more in love with the world around me than ever before. At times, it was hard to grasp the alluring beauty and riveting details. An incredibly stimulating place for any artist...

Around every street corner in these cities lies another beautiful color palette, waiting for your indulgences. Each streets' details dance around in the sunlight, longing to be played with. Rich colored houses sit stacked on the hillside, coinciding with the brilliant sea foam that crashes below.  Around every turn lies a prismatic element; beautiful sheets blowing in the wind, flowers blossoming in planters, tile mosaics stretching along walkways. Kaleidoscope colors and character, sweeping through narrow streets of all five cities.

While staying in Monterosso, I was also lucky enough to experience a beautiful hike between the five cities. Stay tuned for some more photos soon.

xo S

My Traveling Sketchbook: Prague's Architectural Inspiration

On to the second stop of the trip; Prague. Having never been to the Czech Republic before, I was anxious to see what this region had in store. Of the eleven countries I've traveled to, I can honestly say that Prague has been the most unique (so far!)

It is not often that one city can represent a vast amount of architectural styles- yet Prague holds them all, side by side in it's beautiful capital. From Romanesque to Gothic, Renaissance to Baroque, and even Rococo to Classicism...Prague throughly represents all eras. Architecture has the potential to unlock every artists' imagination and I encourage any traveling creative to make Prague their next stop. This city was the perfect place to dive head on into the culture and gain an insight to my own artistic voice. 

The architecural lines and shapes quickly began to stimulate my imagination and desire to sketch abstract. My mind could not get enough of the burnt orange roofed houses, intricate gothic structures, and lavish castle gardens. 

Although archictecture must be more functioning, so to speak, than a painting hanging on a wall; the basic elements of art are always needed to create both buildings or finert. All makers, no matter the medium, need to develop strong sense of balance, harmony, and aesthetics in order to accomplish the final goal. Observing these incredible structures from all periods of art has given me a creative bearing; similiar to a compass. I am anxious to get home to my acrylics and empty easel to play with line and texture. Prague has many areas to offer and I would suggest you take the time to explore them all. It is a very clean city, (despite the graffiti) easy to navigate, and safe for late night adventures. Many of the famous scenes are overrun by visitors- so I would suggest visiting many areas at various times of the day in order to get a true feel for the atmosphere. Visiting large points of interest in the early morning makes all the difference.

Here are my favorite places of inspiration:

Old Town Square.

What an incredible piece of history! The town square has remained nearly untouched for decades...and the views of architecture are simply breathtaking. The multicolored, intricate houses caught my eye immediately- but are just the beginning of what the square has to offer.

High in the tower of the elegant Town Hall is the world famous Astronomical Clock- which has shown the procession of the Apostles since The Middle Ages. Immediately, I began doing research on the workings behind this 600 year old clock, and couldn't believe all that it is capable of and represents. The details and vivid colors on the face itself were unlike any other. When the hour strikes, be sure to watch everyone gather in front of the clock to watch the Walking of The Apostle. It amazed me; the thought of time having such a heavy signicance...even for those who lived long ago.  

For only a few Euros, you can climb to the top of the clock tower and feast your eyes on some beautiful birds' eye views of the square. Below, there were hundreds of people, scurrying about to witness the square's beauty. Compared to the size of the archicture surrounding them, they appeared tiny, minuscule, and insignificant. Through out life, there are times when it may be difficult to wrap our head around the power and greatness of something. For me, standing in this bell tower, overlooking a 600 year old city, I felt small. But in the most empowering, and inspirational way a person can feel.

Dominating the opposite end of the square, stands the mystical Tyn Church- one of the most admired Gothic structures in all of Prague. On the third corner, The Church of Saint Nicholas, another breathtaking structure from the inside out. We spent hours exploring, observing and tasting all the Square had to offer. 

Charles Bridge.

One of the most well known structures in Prague, this bridge was built centuries ago in 1357. Baroque statues line the outskirts of the passage, and there is plenty of viewpoints all across the way. Because of its fame, the Charles Bridge is packed with visitors, taking away from of the aesthetic views and intimacy. Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and to catch a glimpse of the structure in the early morning fog. For me, journeying across this century year-old walkway took hours. There are so many characteristics to admire, a vast amount of art to research and interpret. One of the most visited statues, St. John of Nepomuk,  is rumored to bring good fortune to all who touch it; leaving a gleaming, worn plaque in the sunlight. 

Lesser Town.

The Charles Bridge connects Old Town and Lesser town, where my next place of inspiration lies. Here, just across the bridge, there is a bell tower (that many often pass) which allows you to venture to the top for yet another incredible city view.

The narrow, steep stairway was incredibly rewarding once reaching the top. The buildings overlapping in height create strong negative space, their roofs seeming to compete at a glimpse of the sun. Views of both lesser town, old town...and even the Charles Bridge- made for my favorite view of the city. The Castle and St.Vitus Cathedral sit powerfully from afar, overlooking all of Prague; seeming to watch over all below. The Church of St.Nicholas and it's copper dome remain hidden, yet bold, in all of Lesser Town's wonderful character. As far as the eye can see...architecture from all periods of time, longing to be admired.

We were the only observers for the 45 minutes spent at the top, and I was able to sketch/take note of all that was surrounding me. Photography has always been a passion of mine, and will continue to be on all of my journeys... But there is something to be said for jotting down all that our senses take in while present in a moment. How do I feel, what do I see? What little details of sensitive information will be missed when looking at this photo, 10, 15 years from now? Prague has reminded me to be present, to continuously live in the moment.

The Lennon Wall.

Yes, it's true.. Prague has an infatuation with John Lennon. I overheard many tourists mocking the area for their love of westernized music, calling it "weird" or "random"; when really, this admiration stands for something so powerful and inspirational, that it should never be misunderstood. Visiting The Lennon Wall emphasized the importance of misunderstanding when traveling. As travelers, it is so important to remember...just because something is unfamiliar or you do not understand it; does not mean it is strange. Judgement is an ugly thing. No sooner than approaching the mural, The Lennon Wall immediately became one of the biggest places of inspiration while traveling through Prague.

The Lennon Wall represents the fall of the Communist Regime in Prague. It stands for freedom, for peace, and for individualism. John Lennon and all western music was banned for years, and as an act of protest, Prague citizens began painting Lennon lyrics and art on this wall to symbolize their strength. Even with guards standing through the night, more and more art was added to the wall. Prague would not back down, and it was a foreshadowing to the Velvet Revolution. This wall is ever-changing, and is still painted over and added to constantly.

Standing there, in front of this incredibly powerful piece of history, chills ran over my body. For centuries, the arts have always been a means for communication; a voice. Running my fingers across the mural, I couldn't help but feeling grateful. Grateful for every chosen act through out my daily life, grateful for each time I am able to pick up a paintbrush, pen, or turn on my favorite record. The colorful mural represents a sense of community; of people longing, hoping, and praying for a similar dream. And to me, that is what all art should always work towards. Peace, Love, and Individualism. The colors and writings of this wall all blend together to be sure that the voice of freedom is heard. And an artist, it is a beautiful, emotional experience to witness such a bold act of creative expression.

The Castle.

Another beautiful piece of Prague that goes without saying is the 1,146 year old Castle district. Large walls surround the area, creating a village within itself. There, lies one of the most magnificent structures in all of the Czech Republic, St.Vitus Cathedral.

I spent hours wandering, and re-wandering, both the outside and inside of the Cathedral. Each Cathedral I visit, it never ceases to amaze me how unique and full of character they are. The story-telling frescoes on the ceiling, Gothic and Baroque statues surrounding the facadé, rare stone mosaics covering the walls, and the intricate stained glass windows. How can I pull these shapes, these colors, into my work? These brilliant structures of architecture all create such strong compositions... How do the shapes of the doorways and windows lead your eye around the entire building?  The statues and intricate details of the exterior emphasize such lovely shadows when the sun hits them- how does this create depth? Each minuscule detail had a plan, a purpose. Nothing is random, nothing is left to chance. How will this thought/realization affect my work?

And briefly, I sat down to sketch..

The Castle is also surrounded with wonderful, lush gardens; along with views of Lesser Town. Many of the gardens were closed during our visit, but I took in as much as I could..leaving the rest to my imagination. The high, rough textured brick walls against lush greenery created strong visual stimulation.. The colors longing to be on my paint palette.

The outcome and play of sketches inspired by Prague architecture using watercolor and ink pen.

Follow more of my journey on Instagram: @sruetercreates and #MyTravelingSketchbook 

As an artist, Prague has gifted me with incredible insight to all periods of history. Studying art history as a BFA was a great experience, but observing them in real life always offers so much more. The vast amount of architecture reminds me that all art, no matter the form, is working towards a common goal of composition, color, and balance. I am hopeful that these areas will reflect in my work once back at my easel.

Stay tuned. Xo S 

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

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. 

OXA Messenger Bag

Fostering Imagination Through Art

Since I was a little girl, the " art room " had always been a safe haven for me.

Whether it was cutting with my first pair of scissors in kindergarten, or working into my first set of pastels as a senior, there is no doubt that I grew into my own skin because of the art classroom.  

Many of us artists are a product of that one special teacher, mentor, or experience that lead us to believe that we actually are good enough, that it is possible to follow our dreams. At some point in our life, there was someone who whole-heartedly wished and worked to see us blossom into the artist we are today. Can you relate to this statement? Was it an educator who pushed you to your greatest potential? If so, wonderful. If not- though that was a discouraging experience, YOU can be the reason this changes for another young artist.

Four year old student experimenting with texture in watercolors

Art education is so imperative in a young child’s education, whether they grow up to be the next Picasso or a lawyer. With many of the budget cuts appearing in public schools, fine art programs seem to be the first to go. The fine arts represent much more than just a paintbrush or sketchpad- it empowers children with a voice. A chance to be heard, to become confident, and to truly embrace who they are. As art educators, we have the ability to promote freedom of the imagination, develop critical thinking and fine motor skills, build a sense of community, and create self-esteem. Though they are building knowledge in fine art techniques and history, in the end, they walk away with much, much more.

Five year old student learning to draw through observation

Since graduating, we the art educators have witnessed, first hand, the positive effect and significant role the fine arts can play in any child’s life. Children with behavior management issues that use the artistic process as a therapy tool to improve outbursts, Special Education students who thrive and look forward to that hour each day, at risk students who have been abused or neglected wearing a smile on their face because of the design they created, victims of bullying empowered with confidence after finding their voice in years of art lessons. Their stories are real. We, as grown artists, are real. So what allows budget cuts and superintendents the right to take these moments, these life dreams, away from any child before they even know that they exist?

We, as artists, have the ability to change the outcome. To reach deep into our own creative passions and share the magic of the creative process with these little minds. Many believe that no child should endure a childhood filled without magic and imagination, so what entitles anyone to strip them of the arts?

Artistic growth does not need to end between your own paintbrush and your own mind. There is unfounded, ever-evolving growth in teaching the creative process to a young developing mind, heart, and soul. When we choose to open ourselves to the concept of reaching and teaching others, it has no choice but to also change our lives forever. I promise you, the look on a child’s face after they hold a paintbrush for the first time or the excitement after they successfully build their own coil pot- those moments, will open your heart and change your artistic practice. Both you, and your students, will be fulfilled.