Sketching the Light and Landscape in Venice

“I’m not getting on.”

“You have to get on.”

“I don’t, I’m not going.”

5 minutes earlier, you could have mistaken us for locals, idly chatting to a friendly looking Italian who had informed us we needed to take the Linea Arancio (Orange line) to San Marco.

The journey time? Well …it could take anywhere between 30 minutes and 1 hour. He seemed vague, but of course, why should he know details about the journey.

We’d caught a late night flight into Venice and were waiting for one of the last ‘Alliguna’ boats from the airport.

The energy started to change and people formed an orderly queue beside a man clinging precariously to the side of an extremely buoyant boat and then it dawned on us.

The small lurching vessel moored in the dock, that I had 100% assured Vanessa we wouldn’t have to go in, was indeed our transport.

And the vague Italian man … he was the Captain.

The rain lashed into the small space at the rear of the boat, tourists and suitcases packed in together and then I heard Vanessa say  “Scusami, Scusami, we’ve changed our minds, we’re getting off at the Rialto Bridge”

3 stops earlier than I’d planned.

Our Venetian adventure had begun…

Waking up to clearer skies, I eagerly packed my pads, pens and cameras into my backpack, put on a warm jacket and couldn’t wait to get out into the narrow streets to absorb the atmosphere and a few espressos. I had come to sketch and paint studies to take back to my studio, keen to capture the magical Venetian light.

It’s dangerous walking around Venice with a sketchbook because every view is just so…sketchable.

There are so many elements within the city that ‘help’ your drawings, it’s an absolutely fantastic place to observe and practice your compositions. What’s great about the small canals and the tall buildings, is they always create a shadow contrast in the water.

This is even apparent on overcast days because the sky is still much lighter in tone than the shadows cast by the buildings. You can see in the photo above how you have a lovely dark and light pattern in the water from the cast shadow underneath the gondola, also the reflected sky shape and the cast building shadow.

The canals give you a good sense of depth in front of you and then a focal point (through another building) at the end. And more often than not, these buildings have a great balance of dark and light patterns through the windows and shutters.

St Mark’s Square is a blissfully quiet space first thing in the morning. It quickly fills into a throng of human traffic, pigeons and seagulls. You get these great flashes of red throughout this scene, from the chairs, the pillars on the Basilica and the red coats. It’s such a great place to see dark silhouette shadows of figures against the light greys of the surrounding stonework.

The position for this sketch is based on a painting by one of my favourite artist’s Edward Seago.

Edward Seago, A Winter Morning, The Doge Palace, Venice, Oil on Board (1910 – 1974)

Not much at all had changed with the view and it was interesting quite how far back his position was for capturing the expanse of the monuments, with the Doge’s palace to the left and us looking out towards the silhouette of San Giorgio Maggiore in the distance.

I was working with a Muji 0.5mm marker and a couple of grey Faber Castell fibre tip pens.

The water is such an amazing Phthalo/greeny blue and when the sun shines you get an incredible brilliance of dappled light that adds movement to the water.

San Giorgio Maggiore has a lovely warmth of orange to the brickwork which works so well against the warm sky and then the greener sea.

Back at my studio a small acrylic study is in progress, I’m applying thicker paint with a palette knife for impasto marks.

Wandering over some of the many bridges in Venice can be a great way to change your viewing position for sketches and include some of the man made architectural elements.

The superb wall colours along the canals are framed by the dark accents on the waterline. Here I was drawn to the flash of vivid red in the top right of the image that is then repeated in the triangular shapes of the windows

The rich colours on the buildings give you a great palette to work with.

The contrast in colours you get in Venice are so stunning, the deep green of the water, the warm Venetian reds which have a salmon pink quality to them and then an odd flash of a strong Cadmium Red that helps to bring out the rest of the colours.

When faced with a view straight on, it can be hard to decide what to focus on. You don’t have the depth present in the canal views, so I opted for a quick watercolour sketch of the details of the shuttered windows.

I’d packed with me a home-made acrylic Pochade box from a 59p plastic organiser. (The term Pochade comes from the French verb Pocher – to sketch) I’d cut thin strips of stay-wet palette paper to fit into small sections to create a super lightweight acrylic Plein air kit. Hidden behind the canvas board are some tear-off palette pieces ‘cut to size’ that fit snug inside the lid.

Here’s a close up of the box which worked extremely well for something so compact, I’m always on the look out for a neat, light streamlined kit when hitting the streets.

Detail from a watercolour and ink sketch of a Venetian shuttered window using the Lamy water soluble ink with Burnt Sienna, Yellow Ochre and Cobalt Blue Winsor & Newton pans.

We couldn’t resist a Grom Gelato, although my personal favourite, the Cioccolato Extra Noir, (super dark chocolate sorbet) has had a slight tweak to the recipe with the new addition of dark chocolate chips. Personally, I preferred it smoother but I can’t show you any evidence that this version wasn’t well received.

Sketching at the top of one of the largest squares in Venice, San Giovanni e Paolo (also known as San Zanipolo in Venetian dialect) You can just see the edge of the impressive Basilica on the right. It was this view, where the light was creating a strong contrast for the shadows under the bridge, the texture from the foliage and smaller buildings receding into the distance that caught my eye.

This was another quick pen sketch with my viewing position further back so I could include the fab shape of the street lamp on the left. Most of the street lamp was sketched with a thicker fibre tip pen and then just a few thin lines with the Muji pen to add detail.

The wide stone bridges can be the perfect resting edge for sketching equipment.

I love how you always see crisp white linens against the darks of the arches and shutters. The sun just catches the edges of the poles in the water and the sides of the frames, and then you have those repeated colours of the different tones of the warm oranges and stronger reds from the crumbling paint on the brickwork to the terracotta pots on the balcony edges.

Where is my Pochade box now!

Piazza San Marco for the sun setting and you get these gorgeous pinky hues and the Basilica becomes a muted tonal silhouette. The dark shapes of the gondolas and street lamp help to frame this classic Venetian view.

Here’s a quick shot of the main painting I’ve been working on for a new Impressionistic Acrylic Course bringing pastel colours together onto a larger scale studio piece.

Early morning at the Rialto fish market, where the energy of traders and fresh produce available is fantastic to sketch.

It’s housed in such an elegant building, with the red canvas within the arches contrasting against the white details.

Even the letter boxes look exciting!

Carnival preparations were in progress during our stay and the mask shops are plentiful.

We meandered up over to the Ca’d’oro Museum. I’d gone to see a Van Dyck Portrait on display on the second floor but unfortunately, that area of the gallery was closed on our visit. But we had the treat of wandering through the Palace entrance which is usually closed to visitors, it was stunning and we were fortunate enough to have it all to ourselves that morning.

Loved the pattern of the mosaic floor to the diamond shapes in the wall behind, the craftsmanship and detail are fantastic.

This unfinished portrait on display is a great way to observe the under-painting and process of the piece.

You can see the warm Imprimatura ground that has stained the canvas and then the crisp line drawing on top. The lines look like they have been transferred using charcoal.

Well, it wouldn’t be a trip to Venice without a hot chocolate at the oldest coffeehouse in Europe, the most beautiful Caffè Florian in Piazza San Marco. Established in 1720, frequented by Casanova, Lord Byron, Proust and Dickens we were in good company. I opted for the extra cream option, let the good times roll!

Moonlight view on the Grand Canal next to the Ponte dell’Accademia.

We left feeling totally inspired and to put your mind at rest if you are thinking of visiting Venice, the return Alliguna boat journey was super, smooth sailing!

The New Venice – Light & the Landscape Course is now available.

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2. Beginners Urban Sketching Course
3. Painting, Pasties & Padstow – A Cornish Painting trip

This Post Has 322 Comments

  1. Liz Boait

    This is such an inspirational journey through the delights of Venice.
    Thankyou for capturing the special characteristics of the place and sharing them.
    Made my day

  2. Alison Fennell

    You are so right Will – what a total sensory treat Venice is! Thanks for sharing your inspirational photos and poetic sketches. I particularly loved that shot of the crisp linen sheets against the red wall colour. Such an opportunity for drama and interest. I will have to go to Venice! Alison

    1. Will Kemp

      My pleasure Alison, pleased you liked the photos and sketches, yes those linens look so paintable don’t they.
      Will

  3. Bibi

    Gorgeous, you are inspirational, thank you.

  4. Greg Watkiss

    Hello Will,

    Very interesting and informative. Just love the pictures!

    Have you any new courses coming up soon?

    Best regards,
    Greg

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Greg, yes, a new impressionistic landscape painting course where I paint Venice on a larger scale.
      Cheers,
      Will

      1. Samantha McCloskey

        I can’t wait for this one!!

  5. Louise Ryley

    Hey Will Thanks for this, Venice looks amazing, so glad you had a lovely time. I will have to organise a trip – its somewhere on the bucket list!! Cant wait for the next course? Your images are very inspirational… and the writing very enjoyable,, You have started me on a new career path too by the way!!! Painting full time now!

    I look forward to the next course.
    Louise

    1. Will Kemp

      That’s great to hear Louise so pleased the paintings are going well.
      Cheers,
      Will

  6. Alan

    Hi Will, Happy New Year. In a damp and grey Cumbria it was lovely to meandre through Venice. When my wife was 40 I promised her a pizza and took her to Venice to eat it. I have been many times now but love the streets. Fortunately most people avoid walking nowadays and if you cross the Rialto and keep going they are all left behind.
    I find that because of my poor sketching skills I paint copies of other art works and rarely my own so I would like to see your urban sketching plan. Ive just finished an acrylic/pastel course at our local art centre in the old brewery,Kendal.The idea is basic shapes etc in acrylic and highlighting with pastels. My tutor spoke highly of you too!

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Alan, happy new year to you to, a pizza present is always a welcome one! You can read more details about the beginners urban sketching course here. Even just a few lines drawn from your own observation point can make a big difference to any more detailed paintings in the studio, hope you find it helpful.
      Cheers,
      Will

  7. Christine Weston

    Fab Will, thanks, all very inspiring!

    1. Will Kemp

      Hey Christine, nice to hear from you, hope you and Paul are well, pleased you enjoyed the pics.
      Will

  8. Myra Duffy

    Totally inspiring! I’m still attempting your other videos so this will be my next project – (painting views from your photos!). Many sincere thanks for this email. Myra

    1. Will Kemp

      You’re more than welcome Myra, hope the course is going well.
      Will

  9. Tess Winn

    Can’t wait to see your new course. Your sketches are wonderful!

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Tess, pleased you enjoyed them.
      Will

  10. Kay

    Thanks Will.
    We visited Venice in 2014. Would have loved to spend more time there but what we did see was amazing. My camera worked overtime. Photos of Doors, Windows, canals.
    Your photos have inspired me to do some of my own paintings of Venice.
    I agree the light is amazing.
    Once again thanks bought back many memories.

    1. Will Kemp

      Great to hear you’re feeling inspired Kay and glad it brought back some fond memories of your trip.
      Will

  11. Dale Lysle

    I was in Venice in 2015 and although I haven’t painted or drawn any of my photo’s it was a joy to see your photo’s and remember the delights of Venice. Thanks, it might get me back looking at my pics for some references……..

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Dale, yes, sometimes even the smallest detail of a reference image can be the starting point for a painting, enjoy looking through your shots for your next inspiration!
      Will

  12. Heather

    Love your article, amazing photos and love the sketches and artwork…love it all! I’m visiting Italy in April for the first time and this article has made me even more excited about my trip! Thank-you!

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Heather, so pleased you’re feeling excited about your trip.
      Will

  13. Gloria Bardell

    Thank you so much for sharing these stunning photos !

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Gloria, glad you enjoyed them
      Will

  14. Jenni

    Fabulous photo’s Will and so inspiring. Thanks

  15. Val

    Thank you Will, what fantastic views and sketches of Venice. I have lapsed over the past year and haven’t picked up a pencil/paint brush. This has given me some inspiration to start again!
    Best wishes

    1. Will Kemp

      Good one Val, pleased you’re feeling inspired to get sketching.
      Will

  16. Maritza Burgos

    Thanks Will , a wonderful and inspiring post. I am now eager to get my sketch book and pen and hit the streets of my own little corner of the world , here in down under Melbourne, while I dream of going to Venice in a year or so. Thank you and cheers.

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Maritza, hope the sketches go well!
      Will

  17. Edith young

    Very impressive Will, having been to Venice I can understand the love and connection you experienced which shows in your sketches. Virgin.net server stopped working without informing any user which has affected my contact. Fortunately some email arrived in my phone. Edith

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Edith, pleased it brought back some good memories of your experiences in Venice.
      Will

  18. Linda Thornton

    Venice is my favourite city. I’ve been back at least 4 times and would return in a heartbeat. You have brought real insight to the beauty I have always loved and explained what I’ve always taken for granted. Thank you.

    1. Will Kemp

      That’s lovely to hear Linda.
      Will

  19. Marie-Claude

    Sooo inspiring! But it also shows that sketching or rather composing the scene is an art in itself.
    Thank you for sharing.

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Marie-Claude, yes, you’re so right, changing your viewing position and making choices of what will work in the scene before you begin can play such a big part in if the final sketch is going to work.
      Cheers,
      Will

  20. Alison Stafford

    Haha! I can just imagine the horror on your face when that boat turned up!
    Venice is the one place every artist should visit to experience the light, colour, shadows and of course Gelato!
    Looks like you had a blast – right time of year to go too…without the nasty smells of August – looking forward to seeing the fruits of your labour.
    I’m going to book a trip back there after reading this!
    Hope you are both well
    Ali
    xx

    1. Will Kemp

      Hey Ali, nice to hear from you, yes it was a little sketchy on the way over! pleased you’re feeling inspired for a trip, hope the family are well.
      Will

  21. Alida Little

    A couple of years ago I found you (lol) and did some of the beginner courses and loved it all. Well, after a busy period and now looking at other tutorials etc., I’ve come back to settle on digging in, learning and applying your lessons with the goal of truly becoming an ‘artist’. Love all you do and your style of teaching is superb!

    Thank you for sharing your skill so … skillfully :-)!
    Alida

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks very much Alida, glad you enjoyed the photos and are finding the courses helpful in your painting journey.
      Will

  22. Fatima

    Very inspiring & beautiful !

    Thanks Will !

  23. Judy Birt

    As usual, Will, a beautifully written article, which transported me to Venice in my mind and has made me determined to find the time to paint today. I’m really looking forward to your new Impressionistic Acrylic course.

    1. Will Kemp

      Good one Judy, pleased you’re looking forward to the course.
      Will

  24. Venice is always an inspiration. I have Italian and Brazilian citizenship and visit Venice always I can. you travel, photos, drawings and paintings are beautiful. Thank you!

    1. Will Kemp

      What a great combination Suzana! what inspiration trips.
      Will

  25. Dorothy Jones

    What an impressive piece about Venice – the pictures, sketches and writing make me want to be there – NOW. With my luck with weather it would probably be raining, but I don’t think that would matter – it would still look wonderful. Thank you for inspiring me.
    Can’t wait for the impressionist landscape course.

    1. Will Kemp

      You’re too kind Dorothy, so pleased you enjoyed it.
      Will

  26. Anne Wilkinson

    Hello Will, what a brilliant email to receive from you on a dull grey morning. As everyone above acknowledges, your Venetian sketches and photos are hugely inspiring. I’m currently working through your urban sketching course and enjoying it immensely, the plan is to feel confident and ready to go out sketching during summer hols. By coincidence, a trip to Venice is being planned and your helpful advice which I can refer to will be a great bonus for this trip and for other urban scenes. Really looking forward to your next course. A big thank you! Anne

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Anne, really pleased you’re enjoying the course and that’s a great aim with the sketches. It can sometimes be helpful even to practice standing sketching in the garden, you can soon start to learn how things are balancing and which pens and equipment you need to hand.
      Say hi to Paddy!
      Cheers,
      Will

  27. Daryl West

    Thanks Will – very inspirational. I love the portable acrylic palette- what a great idea.
    Since picking up a paintbrush to paint a cherry about 2 years ago (one of your free tutorials) I have painted in acrylics and even sold a few paintings. I am now feeling confident enough to try oils and hope to master them to paint portraits,
    Thanks again for all your invaluable videos, tips and advice,
    Daryl.

    1. Will Kemp

      That’s great to hear Daryl, congratulations on the painting sales!
      Will

  28. Maria

    Wow lovely o be Venice and all the information very inspiring thank you for sharing and knowledge on art

  29. tom-paul

    Will… Living the dream, painting the world and happy as Larry
    great works mate… GREAT!!! tp

    1. Will Kemp

      Ha, ha, cheers Tom-paul pleased you enjoyed it.
      Will

  30. Cate Gibson

    Thank you Will, love the photos, love Venice, been twice and no doubt go again.
    From Australia

    1. Will Kemp

      Cheers Cate, glad you liked the photos.
      Will

  31. Glenn Guillory

    Truly a fine presentation of a super trip. My mentor for 51 years, and my spiritual director, studied in Rome and loved his time in Venice, and you brought his presence back to me with your descriptions, and sketches. I’m self taught. My mom kept me at her side for years as she mixed oils and painted, mostly landscapes and mainly floral arrangements. I got a sort of “perfect pitch” for mixing color out of it, but I never took any courses, just studied out of books, or videos, but I saw you teach and loved your attitude and persona, so warm and upbeat, I plan to enter all the courses you offer, one at a time. I am doing this after discounting many teachers before I found you, with your combination of world savvy, and art excellence. I will eventually ask you which course to take first but I wanted to thank you, and introduce myself first. My website isn’t much now but I’ll update it soon, and even link to your school too. YOU ARE AMAZING. I’m 71 and ready to go!

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks very much Glenn, and lovely to have you along! so pleased the article brought back some fond memories of your mentor and sounds like you’d be up t painting speed in no time. You might find this guide helpful as a suggested route through the paid courses, and have a peruse through the free lessons. The cherry painting gets some fab results.
      Cheers,
      Will

  32. Nicole

    This is a great diary of your visit and can’t wait to see the acrylic demo and more of the paintings that you will have done having had this amazing opportunity to get under/into the skin of Venice. Fab. It encourages me to seek out the photos I took when in Venice several years ago – at a time when I wasn’t so much into my art and painting. The difference now is that whenever I look around I seem to consider how it could be captured as a painting. You have inspired me to have a go. Thank you for sharing.

    1. Will Kemp

      That’s brilliant news Nicole, hope you enjoy seeking out some of your previous photos for inspiration.
      Will

  33. Virginia

    Enjoyed this segment Will. Thank you for sharing.

  34. willie lee

    Hi Will,
    Amazing photo’s and sketches, very inspiring! Can’t wait for your next course.
    Thank you for sharing.
    Willie

    1. Will Kemp

      Cheers Willie, really pleased you enjoyed the photos and sketches
      Will

  35. Elizabeth

    Wow. Fabulous post. Look forward to the tutorial!!

    1. Will Kemp

      Cheers Elizabeth, pleased you’re looking forward to it.
      Will

  36. Coby

    Thanks a lot Will for this nice trip “via your eyes”.

    Best greetings,
    Coby

    1. Will Kemp

      My pleasure Coby, really pleased you enjoyed the virtual tour!
      Will

  37. Claire Johnson

    Bravo! What a trip! I love your photos and the details of treats and goodies too. Thank you so much.

    1. Will Kemp

      Cheers Claire, really pleased you liked them.
      Will

  38. enjoyed love the beautiful paintings you did . looking forward to some courses

    love you work and the info you give on how to paint is very clear thanks

  39. Maria K. Motz

    Hi Will, Thank you for your beautiful photos. Your additional comments regarding the color, light and shadow,etc.. makes the images interesting and carry on the eye of an artist. Those comments will ring a bell to pay attention allows on my drawing and painting. I like your improvised sketch pallet box … i’ll use your idea on making one myself for outdoor studies… Your enthusiasm to share your knowledge as an artist are highly appreciate on my drawing and painting journey. Hope one day I could stop by to see your studio and art gallery.
    Maria

    1. Will Kemp

      Really pleased you enjoyed the photos Maria and glad you found the article helpful, good luck with the improvised palette!
      Will

  40. Ana Marija

    Thanks for a sharing! Beautiful and inspiring.

  41. Monica

    Thank you so much for this post and the beautiful pictures! It brought back so many joyous memories, some of them decades apart. Venice is truly magical.

    1. Will Kemp

      What a great thing to hear Monica, pleased it brought back happy memories.
      Will

  42. Nicole Forget

    Thank you for sharing these beautiful photos. It brings back good memories
    of my two trips to Venice. You give me inspiration to look at my photos
    and paint a scene.

    1. Will Kemp

      Always good to have a look at old photos with a fresh eye Nicole, good luck with your painting.
      Cheers,
      Will

  43. Nancy

    Thank you for sharing, Will. This was quite an inspiration.
    I haven’t painted for a few months, but now I feel creative!!

    1. Will Kemp

      Fantastic that you’re feeling inspired Nancy!
      Cheers,
      Will

  44. Barbara George

    Hi Will – you and your works are new to me – I am so happy to have found you!! Your beautiful mottled colors – masterful sketches – I would love to see more of the large studio piece. From what time period/artist is the unfinished portrait? You make me feel totally inadequate – but in a good inspired way! I visited Mykonos last summer and have been procrastinating about starting on a series of acrylic paintings. I am largely self-taught and therefore very grateful to you for sharing!
    Thank you!

  45. Denny Martindale

    Hello Will,
    Thank you for sharing your wonderful photos and telling us about your visit. Have been thinking about working in plein air again and your post is quickly moving it up on my to do list. This was a lovely start to my day over morning coffee. Blessings from Tennessee, USA!

    1. Will Kemp

      That’s brilliant to hear Denny, yes, even small plein air studies can really help to add a freshness to studio work.
      Will

  46. Karen

    We visited Venice two years ago. I recognize some of these buildings–even the off-the-beaten path structures. The evening light is magical. I’ve yet to paint any scenes, and your post has inspired me to do a mini collection. Thanks!

    1. Will Kemp

      Great to hear it Karen, hope the mini collection goes well.
      Will

  47. John Simlett

    What a treat, Will, thanks for sharing (ice cream notwithstanding). I have a whole Pintarest page for Venice, it’s an Artist’s delight of a place. I shall add your photos if you don’t mind

    Looking forward to the new course, having just done your ‘B & W oil portrait’ for a second time in two years: good revision. I think I’ve completed most of your courses now … and am beginning to call myself a painter, albeit with a small ‘p’.

    Can I suggest that on the new course you drop the complimentary tea & digestives and replace it the hot chocolate and ice cream?

    Best wishes and thanks.

    John

    1. Will Kemp

      Ha, ha, good suggestion John! yes, by all means, thanks for sharing. You’ve been doing some great work, I’d move that p to an uppercase!
      Have a great week.
      Will

  48. Chrissy

    Seeing your sketches has just transported be back to Venice when I was there 2 years ago, looks like you had a great trip and thanks for sharing.

    1. Will Kemp

      My pleasure Chrissy, glad it brought back some nice memories of your visit.
      Will

  49. Marianne

    Awesome pictures Will!..thanks for sharing…looks like a dream trip!

    1. Will Kemp

      Cheers Marianne, glad you enjoyed them
      Will

  50. Peter

    I say we begin a KickStarter fund to raise money and send you and Vanessa to other global destinations.
    This is always very, very helpful to understand your strategy in approaching a subject. How you see the key elements, what details should remain in the final piece. Groundwork is so important in a successful piece. Even if it’s a quick sketch from a gondola…
    Cheers,
    -Peter

    1. Will Kemp

      Ha, ha, don’t be giving Vanessa ideas Peter! really pleased you found it helpful and thanks for the kind words.
      Will

  51. Tracey Carnahan

    Absolutely beautiful. Your sketches are inspired!

  52. Charles Parry

    Hi Will

    As always, you are amazing. Your site is the one that I wait to receive because you are so inspirational. You also make your articles very readable and fun as well – your humour shows through. We are off to Lake Garda in September and once again, as always we will visit Venice but this time with a new perspective because of your latest missive.

    Thanks once again Will.

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Charles, hope you’re well, and so pleased you enjoyed the article and fantastic to hear that you can add some of the ideas to your trip in September.
      Cheers,
      Will

  53. Jim King

    I always enjoy receiving your emails….They take me away with you from the stresses of everyday….Saturday morning I’ll be back into a watercolor I’m working with inspiration from you…Stay well and happy….Jim

    1. Will Kemp

      That’s great to hear Jim, hope the watercolours go well.
      Will

  54. Lynne Oakes

    Thank you SO much for sharing all this! It may be as close to going there as I get, but you truly gave me the ‘feel’ of the place and with your artist’s eye it was extra special.
    Thank you again.
    Lynne

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks very much Lynne, so please help give you a glimpse into the feel of the streets.
      Cheers,
      Will

  55. Cath

    Thanks so much for sharing this Will – fabulous!

  56. Diana walter

    Stuck in endless winter of the great northwest I really loved seeing new and exciting pictures with so many colors and possibilities. Your pochade box is ingenious. I made something like it but didn’t think to cut paper for the lid and have stay wet palette paper in the compartments. Did you also use open acrylics to give you more drying time outdoors? Also great photos by you and Vanessa. Thanks for the inspiration. I think a gelato might be called for this weekend for me and maybe a trip downtown to draw ice skaters in the park.

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Diana, for this trip I used standard acrylics, but OPEN acrylics could also be used. I find with the acrylic compartments if you really load them up they stay wet for a surprisingly long time, even with standard acrylics and no stay wet strip. The biggest mistake can be to bring out lots of tubes and then only squeeze out a really small amount, it will dry very quickly and you’ll be forever going to your bag to top up. I’ll have to try some compartment size to drying time experiments to get the ultimate workability to weight size!
      A trip to the ice skaters sounds great!

      Will

  57. Connie

    Hi Will, thanks for a wonderful “art tour” through Venice, one of my favorite places as well. I am so delighted to see how to take acrylic paint for plein air painting… never have tried it as its seemed impossible to do. Thank you so much for sharing how you carry you paints and pencils. I will have to give it a try. Also, always enjpy your artciles and tutorials!

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Connie, pleased you found it helpful.
      Cheers,
      Will

  58. Akshata

    Hi Will,

    This is an amazing blog indeed!
    It would also be great if you can give your students a detailed tutorial about sketching cityscapes quickly.

    Cheers!
    Akshata

  59. Allan Stanley

    Hey Will, Thanks for reminding me about Venice and of course your sketches. Your Impressionist acrylic course sounds very interesting… do you have a handle on the release or at least some teasers. The painting in this post looks like you are using oils… but I suppose you are using “open” acylics. Thanks and Cheers, Allan

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Allan, I haven’t got any course launch dates at the moment but hopefully thinking mid-March. Both of the paintings featured in the article were using standard acrylics.

      Cheers,
      Will

  60. Debra Artigliere

    Will: Before I started painting, I lived in Italy (south of Rome) for five years. I never before thought of digging out all of my old photos and making an attempt to paint one of the better ones. Your sketches & paintings are beautiful, and brought back memories of visiting Venice. Thank you for all you do for us, and everything you send. I always learn from you.
    Warm regards,
    Debbie

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Debra, what a fabulous location, Rome is such an epic city. Great to hear that you’re feeling inspired to revisit some of those old photos, Venice is a city that doesn’t seem to age so they’ll make brilliant references.
      Cheers,
      Will

  61. Paige Wheeler

    Thank you for sharing such beautiful photos and your paintings and drawings. Very inspiring, and thank you for mentioning what kind of pens and paints you used.

    1. Will Kemp

      My pleasure Paige, really pleased you found it helpful.
      Will

  62. Michael

    As an architect, I consider Venice the most beautiful city in the world. It was wonderful of you to share your experience. It has inspired me to get back to that waiting canvas…

    Love your UT videos….they have really helped a novice painter like myself pick up the brushes and get painting

    1. Will Kemp

      That’s great to hear Michael, really pleased you’ve been enjoying the videos and tutorials.
      Will

  63. Christine Gauthier

    Thank you so much for sharing such beauty. Wow wow wow

    1. Will Kemp

      My pleasure Christine, glad you enjoyed them
      Will

  64. Tamara Torres.

    Wonderful!

  65. Hardy Jones

    What a pleasant surprise to see your work and sights I am so familiar with as well as others not seen. I wonder if you saw the fabulous Sorolla in the Ca D’Oro? You mentioned an impressionist acrylic course. Cuando, cuando??

    Best, Hardy

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Hardy, great to hear from you, I didn’t spot the Sorolla, think it must have been hidden away on the second floor with the Van Dyck.
      looking for a mid-March launch.
      Will

  66. Ben Beckendorf

    Thanks Will – I love your approach – wonderful pleasing photos and sketches – your emails inspire me every time! The way you work with color is very cool! My father, Charles Beckendorf, ( beckendorf.com)was an artist all his life, and I am too, so I’ve grown up in the art world. I’ve always been fascinated by the setups and the preparations in which different artists take to approach their paintings. Please continue to send your newsletters as I look forward to them.
    Thanks again
    Ben B

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks very much Ben, what kind words, so pleased you’ve been enjoying the sketches and techniques.

      Will

  67. Michael Wells

    Always a pleasure to receive your emails and see where you have gone and what you have sketched and/or painted. Wonderfully written and sketched; the photography is also great, who is the photographer, you or your wife?

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Michael, glad you enjoyed them, I’m the main photographer with Vanessa as a reluctant (but super steady) camera assistant!
      Cheers,
      Will

  68. Lynn Davis-Smith

    Wow! These photos and sketches are very inspiring. Thank you so much for sharing.

  69. Retha Palmer

    Bellissima! Thank you for sharing your wonderful article and lovely photos–and of course, your fine sketches!

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Retha, so pleased you liked the images.
      Will

  70. Jim Neuner

    Hi Will,

    Looks like another great adventure. What cameras and which lenses did you take with you on this trip?

    Looking forward to seeing your new course.

    Cheers,
    Jim

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Jim, good to hear from you, a mix of mostly iPhone and a Panasonic LX100.
      Cheers,
      Will

  71. Judy

    How generous of you to share your wonderful studies and photos of Venice. I’ll be smiling for the rest of the day!

    1. Will Kemp

      That’s lovely to hear Judy, so pleased you enjoy them.
      Will

  72. Anne smith

    Great pics, Will. Thanks so much for sending…makes me feel like I am there

  73. Jill

    Thanks Will, lovely photos and comments. We went to Venice for a significant wedding anniversary and loved it. Just wish I had a modicum of painting talent but I keep trying. I can make very enjoyable messes with oil paints, even manage to include my elbows.

    1. Will Kemp

      Ha ha, those elbow paintings can work out great! Hope it brought back some good memories of your anniversary trip Jill.
      Cheers,
      Will

  74. Bernie

    Many thanks Will. Lovely pictures but I particularly like your sketches. Bernie.

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Bernie, pleased you liked the sketches.
      Will

  75. SWRichard

    You always amaze me with your sketching/drawing skills. I would love to own your sketchbooks—they are beautiful ‘art.’

    Your prochade box is very clever! Thanks for that tip, and the types of pens that you use.

    How can any artist resist the vista’s in Venice! Thanks for sharing your visit.

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Sherrie, really pleased you found the article helpful and good luck making your own pochade box.
      Cheers,
      Will

  76. Hilda

    Hi Will,
    Thanks for letting me see Venice through your eyes! I don’t know if I will ever get to go there myself as I live in the US and spend all my travelling energy going home to England. I love your work and last year took two of your courses (Colour Mixing and Acrylic Portraits) which I enjoyed immensely and ever since have been plugging this website and you to anyone who cares to listen! Now I have started my own blog and I am plugging you there too!
    As a mostly acrylic painter, who occasionally does plein aire in water colours – I was very interested in your acrylic Pochade box….definitely something I want to set up for myself, for my next holiday. Thanks for that and for all that you do….you are the only one out there that answered what I always thought, that Acrylics CAN have all the subtlety and excitement that oils do (especially where portraits are concerned)
    Best wishes,
    Hilda

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Hilda, great to hear from you and so pleased that you’ve been finding the courses helpful and thanks for your recommendations, very much appreciated.

      Will

  77. Mary

    Thanks for sharing, Will…always enjoy your posts…so inspiring!

  78. Andy

    WHOA! I was just there this summer! I did a few sketches, but my perspective wasn’t up to snuff so I opted for large spaces, and details of buildings and corners. I loved the idea that Venice is so skethable! Every corner and bridge is an opportunity.

    We got engaged there so I am sure we will be back!
    -a.

    1. Will Kemp

      Congratulations on you engagement Andy! really pleased you had a great time on your visit.
      Will

  79. Helen

    I’m very new at sketching so I love seeing your process. I think I get too caught up in the tiny details… I’ll practice loosening up at bit…
    This series of photos etc. is so beautiful and inspiring.. It seems you have captured the essence of Venice even though I have never been. Stunning… Thank you for sharing!

  80. Paul Langham

    Hi Will,
    This a wonderful and very atmospheric diary of your trip. Venice is a wonderful city, your sketches and photos brought back a lot of memories for me. Thanks for the memories and good luck with the new course!

    Kind regards

    Paul

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Paul, thanks very much, so pleased it brought back great memories from your trip to Venice.
      Will

  81. Catherine

    Thank you, Will! One can sense your passion in what you do across the screen. So inspiring!

    Would you give me some tips on sketching or painting in public? I’d feel really uncomfortable having curious passersby looming around me while I sketch or paint.

    Thanks!

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Catherine, great that you’re feeling inspired, when building confidence to sketching in public it’s often a case of taking baby steps. Start sitting down with a small sketchbook about the size of your phone, you can even put a supermini notebook in a phone case and everyone around she just thinks you’re looking at your phone with a stylus! Then as your confidence builds you can progress to larger sketches whilst standing. You might be interested in the Beginners Urban Sketching Course.

      Cheers,
      Will

  82. Shirley S Clark Clark

    This could not have come at a better time. The little paint box you put together was so what I was looking to do and even better as someone had just given me some of these items when they were downsizing. So now when I go to Newfoundland I can be ready to sketch and plein air paint without taking a lot of items.
    Wonderful sketching and work! That is something I have to work on, but you have inspired me to do so.

    1. Will Kemp

      Fabulous that you’re feeling inspired Shirley, have a great time with your paint sketches.
      Will

  83. Kathy

    Thanks so much for taking the time to share this – the photos, sketches, etc. Very inspiring! Am I the only one who would look forward to a painting tutorial of the cookie tray with the hot chocolate?? It’s not just the architecture in Venice that’s beautiful!

    1. Will Kemp

      Ha, ha, I definitely found the hot chocolate inspirational!

  84. Camille Bodey

    Enjoyed your photos and sketches very much. Thank you.
    I had the privilege of going on a two week pilgrimage to several cities and Venice was one of them.. I would go back in a minute!
    Camille Bodey

    1. Will Kemp

      My pleasure Camille, glad you enjoyed the images.
      Will

  85. Michael Daly

    Reminds me of my own trip three years ago in February. Perhaps it’s the lack of crowds and the early spring light that could make it the best time of year to go. I too sketched and painted on my return, but not to your standard. But at least to my own satisfaction, as it should be.

    1. Will Kemp

      Exactly right Michael, pleased you had an inspirational trip.
      Will

  86. Lucca's Mom

    I’ve been to Venice…you captured it!

  87. Mary

    So looking forward to the new impressionistic landscape course!

  88. Nicolle

    Thank you for sharing. I enjoy reading you. it is very helping. In fact, i like all your tutorials…. thank you again Will !!!

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Nicolle, very kind of you to say say.
      Cheers,
      Will

  89. Lauren Rader

    I love seeing your work and Venice. Thank you for sharing.

  90. Julia

    Hi Will, I love your writing and photos. By reading your Venice travel journey, I am truly being inspired. You have encouraged me to sketch more of wherever my eyes and my heart can still see…I have finally downloaded all of the video that I’ve purchased from you to DVDs and I am waiting to get a new computer to start learning from you regularly.
    Thank you for sharing your photos in an artist’s view.

    1. Will Kemp

      That’s brilliant to hear Julia, really hope you enjoy working through the course.

  91. Jose Gama

    Hi Will lucky man! Thanks so much for sharing your abilities with us, poor mortals, I’ve been many times to Venice but I never could do this kind of beuatiful sketching. Wonderful

    Hug
    Jose

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks for the hug Jose, you might surprise yourself with your sketches, even a few quick lines can really help to get your eyes focused and really observing the scene.
      Will

  92. Cheryl Hughes

    Such fabulous inspirational photos – thank you so much for sharing. I am unlikely to ever experience these wonderful places as I have a fear of flying, so love to see other peoples pics of their fantastic trips. I am plodding along with my interest in art and like to think I have improved in my endeavours after watching your videos, but have a long, long way to go. Thank you Will, Cheers.

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Cheryl, hope it gave you an insight into the atmosphere of the city.
      Cheers,
      Will

  93. geoff heath

    Hi Will and thanks for sharing your Venetian sketches. Geoff.

    1. Will Kemp

      Hey Geoff, pleased you enjoyed them.
      Will

  94. Beth Ayala

    Photos, drawings and paintings made my heart sing.

  95. Julie Arnott

    I so enjoyed your photo essay of Venice. It is such an inspiring place to visit and we too enjoyed a winter holiday there. Thank you for showing us how you can be inspired at every turn. Regards

    1. Will Kemp

      My pleasure Julie, so please you enjoyed it.
      Will

  96. Alison

    Wow, this is an inspiring article, hoping to go to Venice one day, will practice my art in the meantime so I ready for such great views.

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Alison, yes, getting the practice of sketching outside from any view will really help when you’re then faced with a scene you’d like to capture, the back garden and a cup of tea can be a marvellous place to start!
      Will

  97. Carrie

    So inspirational, Will. Thank you for sharing.

    Cheers,

    Carrie

    1. Will Kemp

      You’re more than welcome Carrie, pleased you’re feeling inspired.
      Will

  98. Howard Park

    Thanks for sharing Will !! I especially like your pochade box. The line drawings, as always are exciting and the line and wash you did is always a great way of remembering what you saw. Far better than the one eyed lier (camera) I also teach a line and wash class and have seen my plein air students use this type of drawing ( painting) to hone their visual memory.
    By the way I always thought pochade box comes from poch which means pocket Its a pocket box
    Love your work.
    Cheers. Howard

    1. Will Kemp

      Good one Howard, pleased you enjoyed it.
      Cheers,
      Will

  99. sandy

    thanks for sharing Will – terrific shots and sketches and fulsome and entertaining account of your visit – it s years since I was in Venice and this was almost like being there again!
    I reckon artists get to squeeze every last drop out of a place.

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Sandy, glad it brought back fond memories, yes, it’s got a very high street view to paint ratio!
      Cheers,
      Will

  100. Elfie Duminy

    Thankyou Willem wonderful to see Venice with your eyes . The colours exstra beautiful I will try my best!!

  101. Jamie Wilson

    thank you so much for sharing your painting and pictures! I am looking forward to taking the impressionist course! We have our own beautiful scenes here in the United States but it seems a different light over there…..love the sky with the green water! I know you will email when your course is ready……
    Am taking water color from a wonderful teacher here in California but want to learn the impressionist style as well…..
    thanks again!

    1. Will Kemp

      My pleasure Jamie, yes the green of the water works so well against the Venetian red walls. I’ll send out details of the new course in the next few weeks.
      Will

  102. David nichols

    Thanks will for the great pictures and fantastic sketches, a wonderful inspiration to us all. Regards David.

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks David, pleased you enjoyed them.
      Will

  103. JENNIFER FINDLAY

    WOW!!!!! I have to visit Venice. What incredible photos you have shared. Thank you. It must have been a wonderful trip.

    Cheers

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Jennifer, yes it’s a really inspirational place.
      Will

  104. Barbra Joan

    Will, thank you so much for the tour. I’m Italian, my grandmother was born in Italy, coming to America when she was a very young girl. My dream has always been to see italy. What a beautiful place to be inspired to paint.

    1. Will Kemp

      Really pleased you enjoyed the images Barbra.
      Will

  105. Lean Chew

    I’ve found your articles and videos very helpful indeed. Your teaching style very effective – clear, sticking to the essentials, sound and enthusiastic. Enjoyed your account, photos and sketches of Venice immensely. Thank you.

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks very much Lean, very kind of you to say so.
      Will

  106. Susan Flower

    Hello Will,
    Thanks for your inspirational emailed diary of Venice and I loved your sketches and paintings. I went there on honeymoon with my late husband but never got any photos as we were lost after walking all over and it was getting dark! Happy memories and I’ve always wanted to return – we visited Burano, Murano etc and really enjoyed all the boat trips. When we arrived after a very late unscheduled train trip we both gasped at the canal sparkling with its many lit-up boats; it was about 1am. Now I’m going to ring another friend who paints to arrange a Spring trip – happy painting!

    Sue Flower

    1. Will Kemp

      Sounds fantastic Susan, so pleased you’re feeling inspired to visit again, have a fabulous trip.
      Will

  107. Janet DeAngelis

    Love your photos and sketches, you always inspire me Will, great start to my day, thankyou!

    1. Will Kemp

      Cheers Janet, really pleased you enjoyed it.
      Will

  108. Bill Joos

    Will,

    I have been fortunate to have visited Venice 3 times. They sights are amazing. Every corner one turns, there is something new – from the grand view to the small detail. So much to see – everywhere.
    Great pics!
    After three times, one would suppose one had seen it all, but your pictures make me what to go back. Next year for sure.
    Thanks for the memories.
    Bill

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Bill, so pleased it brought back nice memories of your trips to Venice.
      Cheers,
      Will

  109. Laurie

    Hello Will the photo are breathtaking, I long to visit Venice one day !

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks very much Laurie, really pleased you enjoyed them.
      Will

  110. Kathleen Major

    The colors of Venice are spectacular. Thank you for sharing your wonderful experiences.

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Katheleen, yes, the colours of the crumbling painted walls are brilliant to sketch.
      Will

      1. Audrey Skoreyko

        Thanks,Will for sharing your great sketche and photos of Venice I’ve never been
        There.. Since I am over 90yrs young , I don’ t get to travel much anymore. Love to paint and sketch, always have so will continue to do so for as long as I’m able to..
        Many thanks again!

        1. Will Kemp

          My pleasure Audrey, so pleased to hear you’re still creating and learning, glad you enjoyed it.
          Will

  111. Liz Au

    Aloha Wil! I loved this adventure, your stories and photos! Can’t wait to learn how to sketch and paint some of these scenes! Thank you for sharing!- Liz

    1. Will Kemp

      Hey Liz, hope you’re well, really pleased you enjoyed the photos.
      Will

  112. Nina

    Hi Will: Since you are talking about light in your paintings, please tell me the best way to go about painting clouds with acrylics. My art teacher has me using about 3 brushes at a time to paint clouds and I do find that successful. How do you go about painting clouds, in particular the big fluffy ones in a clear blue sky? Love your work, thank you.

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Nina, for painting realistic clouds try to observe the shapes in between the clouds and get a strong visual pattern to start with, this will help to create a realistic representation.
      Cheers,
      Will

  113. Eileen Frye

    I felt the same thing! I loved the light in Venice!!!!!

  114. Lennie Robson

    What great photos for inspiration! You’ve made me want to go back to my own pics of Venice and try to paint them. You keep people like me more and more interested in doing better at painting.Thanks heaps

    1. Will Kemp

      Pleased to hear it Lennie, really hope you enjoy searching out some new inspiration from your photos.
      Will

  115. linda

    Thank you so much for sending me the pictures and sketches of your Venice trip.
    I look forward to receiving more from you travels. I am going to try a few, bit in pastel and acrylics.
    Linda

    1. Will Kemp

      Great to hear it Linda, good luck with your series!
      Will

  116. Frances

    Will, Thanks for sharing. I lived in Northern Italy in my younger days for about 4 years, so I have lots of memories of Venice. Unfortunately I wasn’t doing a whole lot with my art and didn’t even take photos, but you know what they say about hind sight. Glad you had such a great time, you amaze me with your drawing ability, I would get lost in such a difficult subject. Thank you so much for keeping me on your email list, Frances.

    1. Will Kemp

      My pleasure Frances, glad you enjoyed them and thanks for the kind comments.
      Will

  117. Nancy

    Will,
    Scrolling through your pictures and descriptions took me back to a trip to Italy with my mother back in 2009. She passed away in 2015 and there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t miss her. Thing is, I have my artistic ability from her, she is and I am (except with your help of course) self taught. So this hit me on so many levels and for that I thank you! Crazy thing how things come together and affects you in this life we live.

    Nancy

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Nancy, sounds like you’ve got some lovely memories from the trip with your mother and I’m really glad you enjoyed the article.
      Cheers,
      Will

  118. Ann Lewitowski

    Your sketches are lovely little works of art in themselves.I have visited Venice on a day trip from croatia and missed the opportunity to sketch, I have since retired and do like to paint and sketch. Thanks will for inspiring me to sketch the everyday.

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks very much Ann, yes, there really can be inspiration around every corner.
      Cheers,
      Will

  119. CHERYL

    I ESPECIALLY LIKED THE ORANGE BRICKS ON THE CANAL WALLS, CHANGING TO ALMOST PINK AGAINST THE AQUA COLOR IN THE WATER. AT LEAST MY COMPUTER SHOWED THE COLOR TO BE AQUA IN ONE PICTURE. AND THEN U HAD TO GO AND SHOW THE DELICIOUS DESSERT. MY MOUTH WAS JEALOUS.

    THANK U FOR SHARING AND IT IS A GREAT HELP SHOWING WHAT TOOLS U USE. YOU INSPIRE ME TO GET TO WORK AND ENJOY ALL THAT ART HAS TO OFFER.

    1. Will Kemp

      Ha, ha, pleased you enjoyed the Gelato Cheryl, so pleased you’re feeling inspired.
      Will

  120. Zaree

    Hello Will.
    Thank u very much for these pictures. This is very informative. Thanks again,

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Zaree, nice to hear from you, pleased you found it helpful.
      Will

  121. Christine

    Venice is my favourite place, something breathtaking around every corner. I’ve yet to visit in the winter months. Your post is going to cost me money as I now need to go again !!! Thanks for sharing x

    1. Will Kemp

      Ha, ha, hope you enjoy your next trip Christine.
      Will

  122. Elda Fernandez

    Thank you Will for sharing your feelings and thoughts about Venice.

    I love Venice too. I travel there once a year since 2012. I am only there for three or four days, enough to impregnate myself with its atmosphere and beauty. So far I have done only watercolors but I love your acrylic plain air kit and next time I will incorporate quick acrylic sketches to my travel journal.
    I have three of your courses (the first was Beginners Urban Sketching that has been extremely useful and inspiring for me) so, I’m waiting impatiently for the next one.

    Elda

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Elda, so pleased you’ve been enjoying the courses and a yearly dose sounds like great artistic medicine! pleased you’re looking forward to the new course.
      Cheers,
      Will

  123. Angela

    Hi Will. What a revelation. I had no idea there was such a thing as chocolate sorbet, let alone an extra dark one! Now I might need to go to Venice. It all looks a bit gorgeous. Oh and your art is pretty cool too. Thanks for all you share so generously. I just love your approach.

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Angela, yes it’s rather special a chocolate sorbet, you get the smooth colour and intensity of dark chocolate without the bitterness and it’s often dairy-free. If you’re ever in London, the chocolatier Paul A Young does an excellent 70% dark cholate sorbet in the summer months.

      Cheers,
      Will

  124. Deborah

    Really lovely Will. Thank you.

    1. Will Kemp

      Cheers Deborah, hope you’re well.
      Will

  125. Nancy

    There is no place like Venice – the colors are amazing!

  126. Dorothy

    thank you so much for showing us around Venice we are going in September this year as it is our diamond wedding anniversary. so looking forward to capturing all those lovely colours will try to capture the buildings though i am a novice.

    1. Will Kemp

      Congratulations on your upcoming anniversary Dorothy, what a place to celebrate in.
      Will

  127. Elaine P Miller

    What a wonderful trip you had. I’m too nervous to fly far and I don’t think my legs would see the distance so I appreciate seeing Venice through your eyes. What wonderful photos you took. It’s so good of you to share your experiences. I’m purely an Australian artist (not all that good mind you but I enjoy what I do). I’m concentrating on the Blue Mountains right now as my son lives in Mt Victoria and he shows me around with my trusty camera. Thanks again Will.
    Elaine

    1. Will Kemp

      You’re more than welcome Elaine, so glad it helped to give a small insight into the city for you.
      Will

  128. Michelle

    Will, thank you for sharing. I love your sketches, paint colours and the perspective you show of Venice. The drawing of the canal with the bridge is commonly seen in art. Although I have never been to Venice (it is on my wishlist), your sketches give me a sense of being there! Thanks
    Michelle

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Michelle, pleased you enjoyed the sketches.
      Will

  129. Samara

    Thank you for sharing your adventure! I LOVE the plein aire pochade kit. Not sure I understand how you use a palette to mix colors. I’m always looking for ways to minimize my supplies when plein aire painting.

    1. Will Kemp

      Pleased you enjoyed it Samara.
      Cheers,
      Will

  130. Brenda Finley

    Hello Will:

    Received your Tutorial. Thanks you for sharing your wonderful sketching holiday with
    us all. I so enjoyed the beautiful pics of Venice & your fun filled commentary. What a
    wonderful Holiday for you & your wife. Making memories are so important . You must have been thrilled to sketch so much History. I have a great Idea, how about you taking all your students the next time you wander off to beautiful places, Lol.

    Until the next time, Happy painting.
    Brenda.

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Brenda, lovely to hear from you and really pleased you enjoyed the photos, ha, ha, but how would we have shared the ice-cream out?!
      Cheers,
      Will

  131. Dattatray

    Hi Will
    I really like the sketch part of your amazing work on such small sketch book you are really great a real story teller …….by your paintings ……….great journey………great like your previous journey in Amsterdam ……if am not wrong ….that was also a great journey ………….I would really like to see you on your next journey …….which I feel …..INDIA …….I would really like to see you hear

    once again GREAT WORK……

    Thanks
    Dattatray Mhatre
    Mumbai INDIA

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Dattatray, yes, Amsterdam was a great trip to and thanks for the suggestions!
      Will

  132. Kathleen

    Venice looks so inviting, and your work is amazing.
    Thankyou so much.
    Kathleen

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Kathleen, very kind of you to say so.
      Will

  133. Wendy Bailey

    This travelogue is an award winner. It has everything. Great images, lively writing, superb sketching, crammed full of practical advice for aspiring artists.

    1. Will Kemp

      Cheers Wendy, you’re too kind, so pleased you enjoyed it.
      Will

  134. lara

    Really awesome. Lovely sketches, and the
    tiny paint box was good to see. Thank you!

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Lara, glad you enjoyed it.
      Will

  135. Judith Petering

    Thank you for the wonderful journey. What an amazing collection of buildings, textures and light within those buildings. Itching to get out the tools to paint and sketch.

    1. Will Kemp

      So pleased you’re feeling inspired Judith.
      Cheers,
      Will

  136. deb

    Thank you for these amazing images. love your pochade as well. Onward!

    1. Will Kemp

      Onward indeed Deb! so pleased you enjoyed it.
      Will

  137. Sheryl Gruenig

    Thanks for sharing the photos! It reminded me of my 2007 trip to Venice – what a difference the new camera’s make in color.

    1. Will Kemp

      My pleasure Sheryl, glad it brought back some fond memories of your trip.
      Will

  138. Helle

    Hi Will
    Thanks for sharing your lovely trip and great pics

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Helle, glad you liked them.
      Will

  139. duffy

    Fantastic photos Will! I envy you, I cannot lie!

    1. Will Kemp

      Cheers Duffy, so pleased you enjoyed them
      Will

  140. Julie Powell

    Hi Will,
    If I am in need of inspiration I know I will find it on your site! I have always drawn and painted but never really had the courage to go out and sketch in public, especially urban sketching, but I have recently retired and I would love to be able to relax and casually go out and draw without the fear of people looking at what I am doing. Maybe one day I will have enough confidence. At the moment I just skulk around my village when I know it will be quiet.
    Loved reading this as it is 24 years since I visited Venice. Keep up the brilliant work and inspirational posts.

    Julie

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Julie, so pleased you enjoyed the post, what can help, especially when painting in towns or cities is to find busy squares and then rest with your back against a wall of a building. Onlookers are much less likely to come right up next to you, and it can help to build your confidence of sketching within a busy environment.

      Cheers,
      Will

  141. Joseph L

    Will, I am always pleased with you posts. You really take great photos and your commentary make them really come alive! You are such a talented artist. I really love how you explain and describe your tools and materials. Your sketches are great. I always enjoy your trips. It is as if I am traveling along with you. Thanks so much for sharing.

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks very much Joseph, really glad you enjoyed the photos and descriptions.
      Cheers,
      Will

  142. Patricia Hartmann

    Thank you, Will, for the inspiration. Architecture presents a unique challenge. Seeing your results I intend to keep on task! I am sketching, by the way, from photos of buildings in Europe that were destroyed in WWII. A mission in progress. From
    Chicago, Pat Hartmann

    1. Will Kemp

      My pleasure Patricia, glad it’s helped with encouragement for your sketching project, hope it goes well.
      Will

  143. Kathy Coffman

    Will, thank you so much for sharing your trip with us. To me it’s a real treat as I’ve never been over there from USA. I’m a great fan of yours & love your lessons. Also I always recommend you to aspiring artists.

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks very much Kathy, very kind of you.
      Will

  144. Petrus Boshoff

    Lots of light / beautiful deep colours/ contrasts / ambience. Love the Venice combination of sketching and eventual applied paintings. Waiting in anticipation on New Venice Course . Very interested!

    1. Will Kemp

      Cheers Petrus, really pleased you enjoyed the article and are looking forward to the course.
      Will

  145. Delores Haugland

    Dear Will,
    I so much enjoyed seeing your EXCELLENTsketches and the scenery. Like the direction you are going with the pallette knife abstracts. I have been in an artistic slump, and this helped a little light break through the ennui. The light there is inexplicable…subtle, warm..even the greys. Hmmmmm.

    Thanks so much

    Delores Haugland in Grey Edmonds, WA

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks very much Delores, so pleased you’ve been inspired!
      Will

  146. Elaine Hartigan

    awesome pictures. thanks

  147. Barbara Hunt

    Dear Will,
    Thanks for reviving memories of a journey to Venice as an art student, though we were studying art history and had little time to sketch (a travesty!), your generous tips and suggestions for working plein aire might tempt me on my next trip in September, though this time I will be going with a group of fellow icon writers on a trip to visit the famous icon gallery.
    Scrolling through my fellow followers of Will Kemp sounds like you could have a group going to Venice next year? How about it? Thanks once again.

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Barbara, really pleased you enjoyed the photos, have you great trip when you visit in September.
      Cheers,
      Will

  148. Elizabeth

    Hello! Loved that you shared all your sketches and beautiful photos. Just curious… About how long did it take you on average to sketch those scenes? Thanks!

    1. Will Kemp

      Thanks Elizabeth, the sketches take about 10 – 20 mins each depending on complexity.
      Cheers,
      Will

  149. Liz Rankin

    Hi Will
    Just beautiful! I have moved this past year and relocating is a huge undertaking, but I am almost done with settling in! So inspiring ! Brings back many memories when i was therein 1969!

    Thanks for the inspiriational photographs!
    Liz

    1. Will Kemp

      Hi Liz, nice to hear from you and really pleased you’re feeling settled in your new space, so glad it brought back great memories from your trip.
      Will

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