St. Francis Auditorium Sketch

One of my favorite places to visit is Santa Fe, New Mexico.  In December George and I took a short trip to visit dear friends who live there and I can never get enough.  I find it so much fun walking the shops of downtown looking for Christmas gifts, admiring the architecture, and visiting the museums.  I kept wanting to sketch each day but there was too much to fit in!  Finally, on the last day I was all shopped out, had seen the sights and my usual favorite spots, so George and I decided to see if we could sit in the auditorium of the New Mexico Art Museum.

After running around all day it was a relief to find St. Francis auditorium completely empty and to sit still for a bit.  The silence was lovely and we settled in the front corner near the stage.  As you can see below the architecture is AMAZING!!!  I love the beautiful carved vigas (beams) that support the ceiling.

The detail on both the beams and the support columns is so charming.  I like the rustic nature and patterns created simply by using a few shapes and colors.

“What catches your attention can change day to day.
But what catches your attention day after day is what you should pay attention to.”
― Khang Kijarro Nguyen

Below is the view from where I sat to sketch.  I was able to sit on the stage in the corner and drew for about an hour before we had to go.

After sketching I stepped out the side door that leads to a sculpture garden.  When I looked back at the building I noticed the ends of the sun-worn vigas sticking out at the top.  The repetition of the beams and the stark contrast between the adobe and the sky were stunning.  I never knew I loved adobe buildings until I visited Santa Fe.  The soft curves of the corners, the exposed, weathered beams and attention to detail makes my heart sing and feels like love.  Even the word "adobe" seems adorable to me.

As I enter the new year I don't normally make traditional resolutions.  But I do know that each year I am more conscious of noticing what makes me happy.  What catches my eye?  What do I find achingly beautiful?  When I notice these things my path becomes clear.  I may not know where the path is leading but all I have to do is take one step towards what I love. Then I keep looking and the next step always appears.

"If you are not in awe, then you are not paying attention." - Unknown