Last year in May I was on my Boston sketch trip. It’s a great time to visit Boston, the weather is a bit cool but nice. Also there’s blooming everywhere: tulips, magnolias and cherries. I was impressed by the beautiful architecture that inspired me to sketch. And of course I visited art museums for inspiration and learning from the great artists. Here I am sharing with you my sketches from different locations of Boston:
Do you like posts about sketch trips? I already have posts about sketch trips to Rome, Tbilisi, Chicago, IL and NYC. You are welcome to read them!
My materials in this sketch trip:
Massachusetts State House
The Massachusetts State House is a prominent stop on Boston’s Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long path through the city that highlights key historical sites related to the American Revolution and the early history of the United States. Its building was completed in 1798 in the Federal architectural style. This style, popular in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, is characterized by its symmetry, classic proportions, and decorative elements influenced by ancient Roman architecture. I found its architecture interesting and sketched it when I walked the Freedom Trail.
Explore the wonders of Boston as you tour around the city on a hop-on hop-off trolley.
Museum of Fine Arts
The Museum of Fine Arts is not only a lot of inspiration but also a great spot to sketch. I spent hours sketching the museum’s paintings and some of its beautiful sculptures. The art within the museum also sparked ideas, leading to a series of sketches inspired by various exhibits. I chose to visit the museum when it was open till 8pm, so I had plenty of time to sketch and enjoy it. In evening hours the museum is less crowded as one of the advantages of the evening visit.
Plan your visit to the Museum of Fine arts here.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
The most interesting part of this museum and the highlight is its courtyard. It looks like you are in one of the palazzo’s in Venice because of the architecture. Also there is a beautiful flowers and plans and sculptures around. You can take some amazing photos from the balconies of the upper floors. I sketched the architecture of the venetian palazzo, and was delighted by its beauty. The rooms were too dark to sketch there and it’s a pity because the interiors were great and also the paintings.
Discover Boston with the City Pass from 2 to 5 main attractions of the city.
Amazing Architecture Around the City
Boston’s architecture is a blend of old and new, with historic buildings standing proudly beside modern marvels. Each street offered a new perspective and fresh inspiration. I picked one of the houses on Commonwealth Ave, sitting on the bench and capturing an amazing architecture. Also I’m a big fan of the house on 140 Worcester St. At first I saw it on Pinterest and sketched it. So when I was in Boston I couldn’t miss this location.
Public Garden
The Public Garden in spring is a riot of colors and a haven for sketchers. The famous swan boats gliding across the pond, the blooming flowers, and the majestic trees provided endless subjects. I found a shady spot under a tree and spent a peaceful afternoon capturing the garden’s vibrant life on paper. One of the highlights of May are tulips there’s a lot of different kinds and colors. Below is my sketch with tulips and part of the garden.
Boston in May is a sketcher’s dream. Each location offered unique challenges and rewards, making this trip one of my most memorable sketching adventures. Highly recommend you to visit Boston in May. It’s really worth it!
