Signs of Summer

Some people say it’s always summer in California. But it’s only summer for sure when the Farmers’ Market is loaded with peaches and plums, nectarines and apricots. And all sorts of cross-bred fruit: ever heard of a pluot? or a peachcot? They’re here at the local Farmers’ market in San Jose.  And they’re literally bursting with color.

Besides the summer fruit stalls, I love sketching at the Asian vegetable stall. Not only is it an array of color and texture, but it makes for fascinating people-watching. It is a joy to watch market-goers carefully hand-pick every okra and eggplant they drop into their bags. And, it’s just easier to draw people when they’re deeply engaged in an activity: they stay still for a longer time 🙂

This last sketch is of a stand that sells corn, fresh from the farms of Brentwood, not far from the Bay Area. It is advertised as ‘picked by headlight’ only a few hours before you buy it. 

What are the signs of summer where YOU live? 

More of my thoughts on crafting these sketches here on my blog.