Italy, with its sun-drenched piazzas and ancient architecture, has become a muse for countless artists. Among them, I find myself utterly captivated by its magic, particularly when wielding the translucent magic of watercolors.

 

From the bustling streets of Rome to the ethereal canals of Venice, each Italian city I’ve visited—Rome, Venice, Milan, Lecco, Padua, Fabriano, and Bologna—has unfolded like a living masterpiece. Yet, my artistic heart is particularly drawn to the grandeur of Italian architecture.

These structures, imposing and intricate, pose a delightful challenge for a watercolorist. Capturing their essence with washes of color and light demands both skill and a touch of daring. But the reward—a piece that whispers of history and echoes with the Italian spirit—makes it all worthwhile.

Over the years, many Italian scenes have found their way onto my watercolor paper. Through them, I’ve strived to capture not just the form, but the very soul of these places. The play of light on a weathered facade, the vibrant reflections dancing on a wet street after a cold rain—these are the fleeting moments I yearn to preserve.

 

It is in these moments of “wet reflections” that I find the most joy. The watercolor medium, with its ability to bleed and blend, becomes a perfect partner in this dance of light and water. The world melts and reforms on the paper, mimicking the fleeting magic of an Italian afternoon shower.

Italy, with its timeless beauty and ever-shifting light, continues to inspire my artistic journey. Each brushstroke is an ode to this land, a testament to the enduring power of art to capture a place and its spirit.