Tuscan Memory

 Often I dream of traveling, but the actual logistics of flying, sleeping in a different bed, trying to figure out where to eat are details I don't always flow well with. I endure these minor inconveniences to feel and experience the wonder of a new place, leaving that imprint of the unfamiliar yet exciting space forever on my soul. Isn't this truly why we seek to travel? Or perhaps others pursue their travel interests for cultural diversity, or exposure to new foods. For me, it is the sensation of the colors, the smells, the landscapes that I wish to drink in personally rather than view it on a screen. 

There was a time I had the bucket list of all the places I wanted to visit. I don't keep such a long list anymore, but maybe a handful of places I find intriguing. 

My great grandparents both immigrated from Sicily in the early 20th century. They came as young adults and didn't know one another until they had moved to the U.S. My grandmother was 100% Sicilian, grew up speaking Italian, and eating Italian recipes. I don't know if she was ever able to visit Italy or Sicily as she passed away in 2000, and I didn't get to know her as well as I would have liked. 

And for whatever reason lately I have wanted to understand Italy more because of my family connection. It's been over 3 months now that I started learning basic Italian, I've mastered making homemade pizza, will only buy Italian pasta, and am keeping a vision of sipping a glass of wine in central Italy (either Tuscany or Umbria) on a beautiful day surrounded by lavender fields. This is my manifestation of what I will see.

The cat on the barrel refers back to a 2022 memory when my husband and I visited a local winery with barrels as tables, and the friendly vineyard cat sat on top enjoying our company. This is a 17 inch square drawing with watercolor paints that took over a month to complete. I consulted a color palette book to get the greens and ochre yellows just right. Fine liners of various colors enhance the details. I am very pleased with it, and it now hangs in the dining room to remind me of my goal to get there.

Another small paint/sketchbook I have dedicated to Italy has one page displaying my visions of Italian lavender fields. This one uses watercolor crayons with less details. These sketches are done typically in a couple of hours, but gratify that urge to splash color with a future memory of where I'd like to visit someday. 

This large piece of Tuscany/Umbria has taught me a lot. While I love and appreciate art immensely, I'm coming to realize that my work is more the illustrative type. The combination of details, colors and my whimsical imagination has convinced me that my work is a focal point of a time and place that captivates happiness, tickles the senses, and gives appreciation for our beautiful world.

Tuscan Sunset Ride in gouache

Tuscany Italy is a dream to visit. The wine, the sunflowers, the colors, and romance are all very tantalizing to my soul. I've tried to capture that feeling in this painting. Usually the cyrpress tree is more predominant in images of this region, but I felt the willow tree-a symbol of balance and harmony-was a more fitting icon. Riding a bike through these hills would feel refreshing and peaceful, but I didn't include the wine on this bike ride. After a glass or two, I don't think I could pedal back home. This picture of paradise was painted in gouache on canvas board.

 

Traveling vicariously by Art Journal #2

Since coming back from vacation in March in Iceland, I think I am ready for someplace with warmer temperatures. Don't get me wrong, Iceland is GORGEOUS, and like no other place on this earth I am convinced. But sideways rain, and having to wear snowboots on spring break wasn't as comfortable as the places I would be listed below. 

Despite the giant pythons and alligator-eating-children in Florida, I would love to see Key West. Something about all of those pastel buildings and islands that scream tropical vacation, without leaving the states!

What's even better than Florida? Tuscany Italy! While it may not have warm sandy beaches and cold fruity alcholic beverages, the vineyards and rolling hills seem romantic and dreamy just as well. This is my husband's dream vacation, and I really hope to get there with him for that honeymoon we never were able to take.