I love black licorice, and have learned over the years how good the "real stuff" is - Dutch licorice (drop/dropjes). Unfortunately, if you who don't like black licorice, and try a piece of the good Dutch stuff, you will probably think you're being poisoned! The flavor is that strong. Dropjes come in all sorts of assorted sizes, shapes, textures and flavors; ranging from different levels of sweet to salty (zout) and extremely salty (dubble zout). I've enjoyed most of the ones I've been fortunate enough to try, but I think the dubble zout can only possibly appeal to those with 100% Dutch blood. (Anyone want to prove me wrong?)
This 20 minute sketch shows only five types of the sweet versions out there. The honig drop (honey licorice, shaped like a beehive) on the far right is one of my personal favorites. Pen and watercolor, 4" x 8".
This small 20 minute sketch was a nice relief from today's summer heat, just something bright, refreshing and cheerful. Pencil, pen, and watercolor, approx. 4 1/2" square.
The Renaissance festival I attended this past weekend has tons of opportunities for sketching for those inclined to do so. There are interesting people and sights everywhere, especially people in costumes! These sketches were pencilled in quickly, while watching the various performances. As opposed to my other sketches, though, these definitely took longer than 20 minutes to complete. These people paintings offer a nice relief from all the still life I usually paint I think!
