Notes from Italy

Thoughts about drawing from the perspective of being back home

Hi Everyone,

I got back last week from 28 days in Italy. It already feels like a dream. Spending time in a gorgeous, peaceful spot with 17 like-minded, creative people and being indulged at the workshop venue contrasted deeply with the reality of home with all the bombardments of commitments and tasks. It always takes me a while to readjust to my flow. I’m working on practicing what we teach, letting go of perfection and results, and focusing a lot more on the process.

Gayle Kabaker

and I have taught ten workshops together, and over time we have fine-tuned our instruction to build day by day on the past lesson. We start with lots of observing and drawing and keep that up throughout the week while also building our painting skills and enjoying those discoveries. Drawing hasn’t been a big part of my practice up till now, and I’ve struggled with that disconnect. Similar to my journey of painting everyday, It took a while to find my way with drawing. Somehow I couldn't figure out how to integrate it into my days. But through teaching, I have learned and adapted along with all of the students.

I love my drawing sketchbook now as much as my painted one. When I take the time to just draw, I can find a feeling of peace. Painting does that too, but it’s more of a process and feels like bigger stakes. I slip my notebook and a few markers (I’ve been using these Kuretake Zigs and Tombow) into whatever bag I have with me. I can stop and draw anywhere, which I love. These markers can be layered like watercolor, so I am satisfied. It feels like I’m painting, but I am drawing, and I feel just as fulfilled by them as with a big painted sketchbook. It’s just a different ending, but it’s still a great story.

I sometimes use the sketchbook to plan ideas for a painted page, but I also just draw little things that interest me. Those little bits may end up in a painting, but more importantly, I’ve created images of things in my own style that I want to remember. All the thousands of photos don’t jog the memory in the same way.

Gayle and I have a New Fashion Inspired/Italy Zoom Class Sunday, November 3rd 1-3:15 EST with special guest Mokshini. Donation only, all levels welcome, join us!

There are spots left in our Fall 2025 Greece Workshop. It’s going to be an incredible week. Please write to ask me any questions. There is more info on my last newsletter here.

I am working on a large cleanout studio sale. I have lots of original work available, There is so much art in my archives and I’d love for them to find new happy homes. I will be adding more week by week as well. Take a look

See you soon,

xxJennifer