Also, my sketches are usually of an important architectural sight in a city, and naturally there are many people around it… a mix of locals and tourists, passers-by and loiterers.  Many are curious, wondering what I’m looking at and what I’m doing.  It’s a different way to interact with local people as well as fellow travelers.  The curiosity level is different in each country too — sometimes I’m literally surrounded by people while sketching, almost to the point of not being able to finish!  Other times, I’m treated like a celebrity, with strangers asking for a photo with me, even an autograph!  Most times, I’ll just get a pleasant “very nice!” in the local language, which always makes me smile.

I’ve met many people, had some great conversations, and made new friends and travel buddies just by stopping and putting my pencil to paper.  So, enjoy the sketches below, and as you look at them, try to imagine that behind almost every sketch lies a great story!