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A couple years ago I attended a three day master class at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, “the nation’s first school and museum of the fine arts.” I loved the class, not so much the commute from central, NJ. A couple weeks ago I returned for a 5 day “intensive” on botanical drawing and painting,  but I stayed at a nearby Marriott. What a difference not having to make that commute made!

I selected a Calla Lily Zantedeschia to use as my model.  I worked with it several days, including doing sketches of it, a toned drawing, and eventually a watercolor painting of it.  I later learned this is called called a Picasso Calla Lily!

In addition to my class, I used every break and lunch hour to wonder around the school.  I visited every floor.  Some hallways were near empty, something I learned only happens during the summer months.  Others were flowing with artwork, and some rooms had other “intensive” classes going on.

Since I have a lot of printmaking experience, I was thrilled that the instructor of this printmaking class allowed me in to wander around the huge classroom. It was filled with all types of interesting prints, and I was so tempted to join right in!

Also fun was heading to the 11th floor where there is a student lounge and going onto the roof where there are a few tables and chairs along with great views. I took all types of photos while up there.

Then there were all of the exhibits going on at both the museum housed within the new school building and the exhibits going on in the museum of the original building. Every day there was something new to see and explore.

When I saw my reflection in the artwork, along with the building behind me, I had to snap some photos!   

Each morning I woke to the sun rising over the Delaware and flooding my room with light.  I took along my favorite large teacup, made tea, and wrote in my journal.  These photos scratch the surface of the many I took at the school and around downtown Philadelphia.  I look forward to returning again!