Returning to the Summer Palace, I painted a quick watercolor sketch to work on keeping the first vivid impression. I begin with masses of light and shade without first drawing with lines, such as the drawing of the Tower of Buddhist Incense. It an approach I’m practicing with watercolor. Keeping in mind simplicity, values and keeping away from details that can spoil the beginnings of a sketch.

The Summer Palace is my favorite site to visit in Beijing.   It is a spectacular place to re-visit at all times of the day and during the changing seasons. The spring cherry blossoms are in full bloom and nature is beginning to prepare for summer.

Summer Palace, Tower of the Buddhist Incense

Summer Palace, Tower of the Buddhist Incense across Kunming Lake, Beijing

The bold colors of the glazed tiles in yellow, green, blue and black stand out from a distance. My goal for future sketching is to work on proportions, values and that first impression.