I reached my goal yesterday of painting 2 dozen studies of New York Citi graffiti from photographs I took in the early 1990s, in each of two formats (portrait and landscape).  In this farewell post to this series, I decided to paint two more studies to make an even 50 graffiti watercolor sketches.

Today’s watercolor experiment:

Final portrait-format graffiti sketch:

The portrait format study is an empty storefront for rent. I call it Space Graffiti, in recognition of the ‘Space for Rent’ sign in the window.

The shadowed awning above the gated storefront contributes to a three-dimensional visual effect.

Space Graffiti Reference Photo

Final landscape-format graffiti sketch:

When I was a kid, we used to drive from lower Manhattan to midtown to get the tunnel home. I remember the transition from Allen Street, a divided thoroughfare to First Avenue, a one-way street going uptown. The transition happened at Houston Street. I remember a really interesting building right in the middle of the divider. I love the brickwork.

Allen Street Graffiti
4″x6″140# Cold Pressed Watercolor Block

When I think about it, this building might house part of the ventilation system for the subway, which is in the vicinity.

Allen Street Graffiti Reference Photograph

What’s next?

My paintings of the past couple of months celebrated scenes from New York City, where I used to live. I enjoyed copying my photographs to construct watercolor sketches. My watercolor experiments have concentrated on draftsmanship, a skill that I continue to develop.

Tomorrow, I exit my comfort zone to talk about and sketch more personal matters. It may take me a while to become comfortable with a new topic, but a little discomfort is conducive to better art.

See you all tomorrow!