Portugal, Part 2: Olive Trees
Portugal’s Alentejo region is known for its olive groves, olive oil, and ancient trees. During my recent workshop at Sofia in Monsaraz, our group passed century-old olive trees lining a farm road on our daily walk between the hotel and the retreat site. I loved imagining their many years in the sun: sheltering sheep, bearing fruit, and growing more gnarled year by year, until each one developed its own distinct personality.
I could draw olive trees for days and never tire of them. But time was short, so I only had the chance to sketch a few. No wonder they are considered symbols of prosperity and wisdom.
Tips and Techniques- It typically takes me at about and hour to sketch a tree, which I prefer to do from life. However, because it was very hot with limited shade, I had to work more quickly and finish using photos. I tested a variety of techniques here, mainly wanting to emphasize the beauty and character of the twisted trunks. I like the two sepia sketches best, with just a touch of raw sienna. The date stamps are based on Portuguese tile designs.
Drawn In 
Don’t old trees have SO much character? Love these! 🥰
They sure do! These were so wonderful to see and draw.
inspirational!👍
Thanks Karen!
You completely captured the beauty of these ancient olive trees, Jean. I feel so fortunate to have spent time with you
Right back at you Carolyn! I went back down the road one hot evening and again on the last morning to try to capture them…and then finished up in the airport(!) and at home. We were fortunate to see them. I’m so glad you came!
Love these sepia drawings and the way you let the upper branches fade and disappear.
Thanks! The twisted forms of the trunks were more interesting that the tops, which are heavily pruned to allow for air flow and higher yeilds. I wish I had done sepia ink on all of them, but it took me a sketch or two to figure out that it was the approach I liked best.
Awesomely brilliant idea for iconic Portuguese tile patterns, Jean! A great way to capture so many designs embedded in your drawings! Oh my … just awesome! All of your olive tree sketches and paintings are so beautiful, but my favorites are definitely your favorites trees, the sepia pair. Something about the ink only and your free and loose sketching style truly being out their unique characters. I do love the branch of olive leaves and a few different plants to complete that page. Would’ve loved to see the magpies! Such a marvelous post from such a wonderful trip (so far!). Like everyone else reading, oooh-ing and awwwwwww-ing along, I’m on the edge of my seat awaiting what comes next!
happy Summer Solstice!
Thanks so much, Barb! I’m still getting caught up post-trip, but I’m also getting back to sketching what’s around me here. I feel privileged to have been able to explore parts of Portugal and become steeped, even if briefly, in its natural and cultural history.
I love everything about these sketchbook pages, and am SO glad you celebrated the olive trees. The character of their bark reflects the passage of time so well.
Thanks Sam! The olive trees were wonderful to draw– wish I could have done more of them!
These are just the perfect juxtaposition of detail and simplicity that is SO satisfying and inspiring. Thanks for sharing these Jean, what a gift you have.
Cindy- What a very sweet note! Makes my day! Thanks!
Loved seeing the sketches, Jean. I visited Portugal many years ago and your sketches took me back there in a flash … thank you!