Different Colosseums
At first glance, it may seem strange.
A group of people sits in the same place, looking at the same monument, under the same sky. They all have the same view of the Colosseum in front of them. Yes, the same view. Yes, the same view. Yet human beings are remarkably diverse. We may all belong to the same species, but each of us sees the world through different eyes. Perhaps that is one of humanity’s greatest wonders.
For thi simple reason when the sketches are finished, no two drawings are ever the same.
Over the years, this has become one of my favorite parts of Sketch and Savor experience. Sketch and Savor experience. It feels like a small investigation, a treasure hunt into the human soul.
Some people focus on the overall shape of the monument
Others become fascinated by a single arch, a shadow, or a detail hidden among the stones. Some draw carefully and slowly, while others sketch quickly, capturing only the essential lines. Everybody draws according to his character, immagination and feeling. A sketch is not simply a collection of lines on paper; it is a mirror of the soul.
Children often notice things that adults completely ignore.
Architects tend to pay attention to proportions and structure.
Artists are drawn to light and composition.
Travelers who have never drawn before are often surprised by what catches their attention.
The Colosseum remains exactly the same
What changes is the person observing it. The history embodied by the Colosseum is absorbed and interpreted differently by people from different cultures and backgrounds.
This simple exercise reveals something interesting. We do not experience places objectively. We experience them through our interests, memories, emotions, and curiosity. And for this reason this is the best way to capture the atmosphere of a magic place.
Two people can stand side by side and leave with completely different impressions of Rome.
One remembers the grandeur of the monument.
Another remembers the shade of the trees in Oppio Park.
Someone else remembers a conversation, a detail, or a feeling.
Perhaps this is one of the reasons why travel can be so meaningful
We are not simply collecting places. We are creating personal relationships with them. We are weaving a plot for our life romance, and this is, perhaps, one of the most intriguing chapter.
The sketch itself is not the goal.
The goal is attention.
Drawing encourages us to slow down and spend time with what is in front of us. We begin to notice things that would otherwise remain invisible during a quick visit or a hurried photograph.
By the end of the experience, every participant leaves with a different drawing.
More importantly, they leave with a different experience of the same place.
And that may be the most fascinating thing about the Colosseum: millions of people visit it every year, yet each person discovers a slightly different Rome.
If you are intersted in this experience, feel free to check dates and availability
If you prefer, you can book securely through Viator.
I look forward meeting you.
Laura by Rome and You