Sketchbook Journeys – Italy: Day 13 (San Gimignano)

On Day 13, we said goodbye to Siena and headed north toward Lucca, meandering through the countryside on narrow, two-lane roads, enjoying a perfect spring day in Tuscany.

10″ x 7″, ink, watercolor pencil, and watercolor in Stillman & Birn Beta series sketchbook

Our first stop was the medieval walled city of San Gimignano, famous for its fourteen towers which form an unforgettable picture against the bright blue sky.

Drawn with a Derwent chocolate 66 watercolour pencil, with watercolor washes added on top

I wish we had had more time to explore. The place just oozes history, and the architecture is incredible.

Drawn with a Sakura Pigma Micron 01 black pen, with watercolor wash

There were really nice shops, too, filled with Italian leather purses, embroidered linens, and hand-painted pottery.

10″ x 7″, ink & watercolor in Stillman & Birn Beta series sketchbook

I felt like a typical tourist, stopping to snap photos every few feet. “Oooh! Look at that door! Oh, look at those adorable little old ladies standing under that archway! What a great composition! Oh!! Look at the laundry hanging against that 500 year-old stone wall! And the view! Augh! I can’t stand it – it’s so BEAUTIFUL!!!”

Yes, that’s exactly how I spent my hours in San Gimignano. And my days in Tuscany.

It’s really that wonderful.

5 Comments

  • Your Tuscan buildings are so textured and gorgeous! You are making me dream of returning to Italy soon.

    Reply
  • Leslie, I love the warmth and "life" in your paintings. Makes me wish I could just pick up and go myself!

    Also, thanks again for the Intro to Journaling class. It was a wonderful experience and gave me many things to think about!

    Lydia Mansur

    Reply
    • It was a pleasure having you in class, Lydia. I hope to see you at another MAL class soon.

      Reply
  • I love these journal pages! They are so happy and fun as well as beautiful. Makes me feel like I've been to Italy too! See you in class on Saturday……Cathy McCort

    Reply

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I’m Leslie. A painter, teacher, and lover of all things creative. A sketchbook artist who captures everyday life on the pages of my illustrated journals. I love sharing, connecting, and encouraging people to find their creative voice through sketchbook journaling. Read more about me, my art, and my life HERE.

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