Docked in Tarpon Springs

 

It's SO fun to paint at the sponge docks in Tarpon Springs - and the weather is glorious once again.  The sun felt so strong as I stood in it to get this vantage.  A boat to my right loaded for sponge diving tours each hour and a half, so I had no choice but to stand forward, in the sun.  This may be the most iconic strip in the area, with cute shops and Greek dining lining the streets, and I just HAD to capture it in oils.  This painting and 8 others will hang at the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center through next Thursday.  Painting number 3689 in 3689 days.  

Sponge Docks

Mom and I came down to the sponge docks today, after I turned in three paintings.  We walked the streets and shopped before my brother and his son joined us for lunch.  When I saw this boat with loads of sponges up and down the dock, I knew I would have to paint it.  One man was stringing some together, while others were bagged in nets.  Many large cylindrical ones were loose in piles - until they were also bagged.  I found a place in the shade, and started the lines of the boat, adjusting as I worked.  This was so fun to sketch - and paint, unlike anything else I've done.  I have painted a sponge boat before, but it only had a few strings of sponges, not the overflowing amount here!  Just docked, these men worked 31 days of 34 out to sea, and I'm sure they were eager to get home.  Imagine being away from your family for long spells.  I learned that the sponges grow back after they are cut, which I love.  What a cool day spent in Tarpon Springs!  Painting number 3190 in 3190 days.  

Anastasi

My very first time to the sponge docks was amazing!!  The Anastasi had sponges strung up to dry dockside to the market area.  This historic piece of Tarpon Springs is a treasure - both for painting and shopping!!  The sweet aroma of greek food wafting over from the restaurant just about drove me crazy before I could complete this painting!  Our meal at Hellos was outstanding, too!!  Painting number 2622 in 2622 days.