A Day of Painting

El Morro as viewed from Isla de Cabra

The outting to Isla de Cabras was less than successful.  As soon as we got into the car to head out to the island, the skies got cloudy and the wind blew as if a hurricane were landing.  Not to be stopped, I got out all my supplies and set up for my first painting.  The wind was blowing so strongly, that before I could apply watercolor paint to my paper it would dry on my brush.  I am sure I looked like a performer from Cirque del Solel - pinning down my paper with one elbow, trying to keep my palette from blowing away with my foot, paint brushes in my mouth, water container in the other hand - yikes, not the best circumstances for painting. 

Old San Juan

The island itself is beautiful.  Just a quick history on Isla de Cabras - it is a small island, and in 1883 a small hospital was completed to house the local lepers, all 35 of them.  In 1926 a leper hospital was built more inland, and the in 1942 the US inaugerated Fort Amezquita which served as a military reserve in WW II. 
Since then, Isla de Cabras has been made a recreational park.  The hospital and fort still stand, but are in disrepair.  There is a small restuarant, picnic areas and bathrooms available.  Entrance into the park is 4.00 per car for parking, although this varies depending on who is working.  

Pelicans are abundant on Isla de Cabra

The area is very lovely, with fantastic views of El Morro, Old San Juan and large cargo ships going in and out of harbour.  What I found most fasinating were the pelicans, who spent the entire day flying, and diving for food. 





On Sunday, I went once again to Old San Juan, and got some great pictures of the Cristo Chapel in Palomas Park.  Hoping this week to get the sketches and photos into one well composed painting. 

Cristo Chapel by Palomas Parque

Also, did the drawing assignment for draw, sketch, doodle which was to draw something round.  Right now I am engrossed with waterdrops.  Such simple shapes and designs and so hard to realistically capture.  I also thought it would be fun to do my drawing on ATC 3 1/2 X 2 1/2.....I like working with the small sizes - not sure why, just find it fulfiling. 

Drops of Rain - graphite 3 1/2 x 2 1/2

That's it . . . this week, will be busy for me.  Water Color Society paint out on the beach on Wednesday, and then getting ready for a visit from my Stepdaughter for 10 days.  Hoping to get her involved with the Art adventure too, but will have to see. . .