Sunday In The Park, St. Louis

Looking North at Park Avenue & Mississippi, 07/19/2015, watercolor, Canson 140lb cp, Michael Anderson

Lafayette Park is at the center of one of the oldest and most elegant neighborhoods in the city. A broad sidewalk and an elaborate wrought iron fence surround all four sides of the park. Runners and people out walking, many with their dogs make a continuous parade. Today I was panhandled by a man needing bus fare.

 Park Avenue Sidewalk, 07/19/2015, watercolor, Canson 140lb cp, Michael Anderson

As I left Park Avenue Coffee another customer asked me about the artists in my painting group, "Is it a class? I have seen them before. It is cool they are here." Some residents now recognize our painting group and they are always welcoming. Life in the city.

End of winter? St. Louis

Perhaps a patch of sunlight on the gazebo roof that stands at the edge of Lafayette Park is a signal that spring has finally returned. The opening buds of flowering trees elsewhere in the park, clumps of emerging daffodils and other plants as well as the fact that I was able to sketch with water colors seems to confirm that Sunday might have been the day that actually could be called the end of winter. Rejoice!

 

Lafayette Park Gazebo, 03/30/2014; Michael Anderson, 7" x 9", Waterbrush, Watercolor on Canson 140lb cold press.

Lafayette Park, St. Louis

At the center of Lafayette Park on the city's near south side is a footbridge that crosses over a lagoon. The pond is below street level and surrounded by lush plantings that are all maintained by neighborhood locals. I have always admired the planters that serve as corner posts to the steel and concrete bridge. I am including this sketch in my upcoming show at Gateway Gallery which coincides with th St. Louis Art Fair. If you are in town for the event stop by the gallery which is just one block from the fairgrounds to say hello. I plan to be at the gallery most of the weekend and I look forward to meeting fellow USkMidwest artists, followers & friends.

Lafayette Park Planter, 2012, Michael Anderson, 9" h x 6" w, watercolor on Arches 140lb cold press.