Daily Sketch No.52 Palazzo Balduini from Altana, Barga

Today, I got the chance of getting above ground level to do my sketch from an Altana, which is an architectural structure built in the upper part of a building to take advantage of the scenic view. This particular altana has several huge windows and the views are stunning, although like many, this one is used to hang washing! This altana would make a perfect studio or at least put a few sun loungers in and drink a cocktail whilst admiring the sun setting over the surrounding mountains. Sometimes I don’t understand the Italians!

Daily Sketch No.51 Tree Lined Via Roma, Barga, Tuscany

The newer part of Barga, just below Barga Vecchia is where most of the shops, banks and cafes are situated. This is one of the main roads that is tree lined with beautiful turn of the century villas on either side. These trees also provide shade on hot summer days. I liked the sun and the shadows on the road.

Daily Sketch No.50 Barn in the Rain, Barga, Tuscany

Just behind our house is an old neglected barn that will probably last for many more years. Built from material that was to hand round about gives the building loads of character and so I sketched this with a soft conte pencil, smudging with my fingers and adding a bit of watercolour over the top to give the appearance of rain and years of neglect.

Daily Sketch No.49 View from Via Delle Mura, Barga

As you walk around the narrow streets and alleyways of Barga Vecchia, you notice how many shutters are closed. Italians seem to live in the dark all year round. In summer the shutters keep out the hot sun and in winter they keep the warmth in. As a Northern European (British), I crave light so our shutters are permanently open all year round and if I lived in this villa for example I would certainly keep the shutters open to see the magnificent scenery outside!

Daily Sketch No.48 No Sun Today near Barga, Tuscany

Well, summer lasted for a day. Today, back to rain and cooler temperatures so my sketch today has softer colours and is more atmospheric. You can just make out the mountains in the distance, yesterday they were pin sharp!

Daily Sketch No.47 Late Afternoon Sun, Barga, Tuscany

A hot sunny day today. House Martins flying around starting to build nests although mud is in short supply due to lack of water this winter. People sitting outside cafes soaking up the sun, drinking cold beers, ice creams in high demand and the late afternoon sun creating warm shadows. Yes, I think summer has finally arrived, hopefully!

Daily Sketch No.46 View over the Rooftops of Barga, Tuscany

So far most of my sketches have been long distance scenes but this time I wanted a more abstract feel to my sketch so this close-up view looking down on the garden and rooftops from the Duomo was perfect. Lots of diagonals and strong shadows gives this sketch dynamism.