Today, 21st January 2012, Joburg Sketchers celebrated the 34th Worldwide Sketchcrawl by going to the old Joburg Observatory to sketch.
The views from the top of the hill are outstanding, but we focussed mostly on the two smaller observatories, the library and a strange platform structure that gives a great vantage point for sketching the buildings.
 |
| The view from the platform - library and old offices behind the two smaller observatories. |
The weather was hot and partly cloudy so some sketchers went into the library and onto the verandah to take advantage of the cool shade.
 |
| Seen through the main hall to the verandah. The library is an attractive stone building by Sir Herbert Baker, and needs attention and maintenance. |
There was plenty to sketch.
 |
| Sketchers atop the platform, while Alan chose the large step at the smaller observatory to settle down and paint watercolours. |
The Astronomy Society's Melvyn Hannibal and Alec Jamieson met us and opened the observatories and library building. They gave us some history and told us a bit about the telescopes. It was all very interesting and made one want to hear more.
 |
| The larger of the two observatories up on the hill. |
 |
| John Philip and Cathy Gatland sketching outside the library building. |
Wendy Prowse and I went off down the hill to the big observatory. Its MUCH bigger than the two up on the hill, of course, but unfortunately it was not possible to have it opened for us....We'll have to go again some time!
 |
| Old Observatory |
And then we discovered, right at the end of the road, and tucked away behind the campus block, this old prefabricated house, which was apparently imported from Australia for the use of an astronomer.
 |
| Old astronomer house - it did not seem to be being lived in. |
It was a most interesting day and we are grateful to the Astronomical Society of SA for their kindness and hospitality.
6 comments:
Really terrific sketches Barbara, and you did so many! I love the harmonious look you got to all of them, and a great feeling of the place.
Thanks Cathy. I really enjoyed the day, and was pretty spoilt for choice of subject.
Incredible sketches. You got so many done. I specially love the one with the sketchers up on the platform. What a great way to remember everyone who was there.
Love the old astronomer house sketch, so look forward to seeing your work, as an ex-pat
thanks Barbara
Super productive Barbara. You managed to capture the interesting details of the place. Thanks for organising such an awesome venue!
These are really great sketches Barbara!!!!
Post a Comment