Several times a week, I choose one of our many local coffee houses in Santa Fe to draw a portrait of a willing person—usually someone absorbed in their computer and sitting relatively still.  I introduce myself as a local artist and ask if they’d be open to having their portrait drawn.

The usual response is surprise, followed by something like, “You want to draw me?” I say, “Yes—if you're willing and will be here for about an hour.”  Then I show them my sketchbook, explain that I keep the original, and they’re welcome to take a photo of the finished drawing.

If they agree, I sit across from them and capture what I can in the time we have.

It’s a great practice for me—and the range of people I meet and what they do for a living is remarkable. I’m always grateful for their openness and for the appreciation they show for a creative process shared so intimately.
 

This portrait series began with an online group of expressive, generous individuals I connected with during a time of creative renewal and personal shift. Their presence lit something up in me — a mix of humor, insight, and quiet boldness — and I felt drawn to capture that spirit on paper.

Unlike my quicker coffee house sketches, these portraits unfolded over 4–5 hours each, giving space for more nuance and presence to emerge. I worked from photos and memory, often returning to a piece across several sessions.

A growing number of these works have been professionally photographed at High Desert Arts in Santa Fe, making prints available at a more accessible price.

Click on any image to learn more.