The day I first walked across the Brooklyn Bridge, July 20, 2023, was a scorcher—one of those hot summer days where the sun seems to cling to your skin. The wooden planks beneath my feet creaked softly as I walked, mingling with the hum of distant traffic and the occasional laughter of tourists. The air was thick with the scent of the East River, and a faint breeze carried the sounds of the city—honking horns, snippets of conversation, and the rhythmic clatter of bike wheels. Standing beneath the iconic arches, with the Manhattan skyline shimmering in the heat, I felt a profound connection to the bridge’s history and the millions of stories it holds. That moment, drenched in sunlight and inspiration, is etched into my memory and continues to fuel my sketches.

Sketching iconic architecture, especially in New York City, is like capturing the heartbeat of a place. The Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Chrysler Building—each one tells its own story, shaped by history, culture, and the hands that built them. What I love most is how these structures stand as symbols of resilience and creativity, and sketching them allows me to connect with their essence in a deeply personal way. Every loose line and splash of color becomes a tribute to their character, and through my sketches, I get to share that magic with others while preserving a piece of the city's soul.

The first time I saw the Statue of Liberty on April 16, 2023, it was like meeting a legend in person. Standing there, gazing up at her towering form, I felt the weight of her symbolism—freedom, hope, resilience—all wrapped in the folds of her copper robes. What struck me most was the way she seemed alive, her raised torch a beacon not just of light, but of possibility. Sketching her later, I found myself drawn to the details: the draped fabric, the upturned foot, the way her crown pierced the sky. It wasn’t just about capturing her likeness, it was about honoring what she represents—a reminder that creativity, like liberty, is a gift we must cherish and share.

Christmas in New York City is pure magic. The towering buildings, softened by the glow of holiday lights, create a backdrop that feels both grand and intimate. The vibrant Christmas tree, with its colorful ornaments and golden glow, pulls me back to childhood memories of seeing the Christmas Spectacular and marveling at the wonder of the season. Sketching scenes like this lets me relive those moments, preserving the joy, nostalgia, and energy of the holidays in every line and wash of color. The way the tree glows against the muted tones of the cityscape reminds me of how the holidays bring warmth to even the coldest days. It’s a celebration of light, connection, and the timeless magic of New York City at Christmastime.