Drummers in Gubbio

There is nothing more exciting than to people watch during a parade. This painting was begun en plein air during the Festival of the Ceri (Festa dei Ceri) in Gubbio, Italy. I was delighted by the colors and sounds, but even more so, by the expressions on the faces of the drummers and attendees. I sketched, photographed and noted the magnificent scene and all of its complexities. I was especially entertained by the aloof expressions of the adolescent drummers contrasted by the excitement and apparent admiration of the young drummer alongside them. I loved seeing the couple rushing to catch up to what I can only manage was a relative. There were so many interesting dynamics I could have done ten paintings.