The Seduction of Iolani Palace

If you’ve been to Iolani Palace, you know how majestic and historic this grand treasure of Hawai’i is.

Built in 1882, Iolani Palace was the home of Hawai’i’s last reigning monarchs and served as the official royal residence and the residence of the Kingdom’s political and social life until the overthrow of the monarchy in 1893, according to the website. It is also the only official royal residence in the United States and one of the most recognizable buildings in the state.

Being there is a return to a dream-like past. Sketching the palace, however is a task that cannot be taken likely.

Urban Sketcher Sergio looked at my unfinished sketch and said it best. “You’ll fallen into the seduction of Iolani Palace, trying to capture every detail.” So true.

When you are surrounded by something this grand and every fixture and architecture detail is so spectacular, you want to capture it all on paper. But when you have less than an hour to do it, it’s difficult to give it justice.

That’s the power of sketching and the best part of Urban Sketching. You learn from others without negativity or judgement. Art is a powerful tool. It not only is beautiful but it feeds your soul.

Thank you fellow sketchers. I learn so much from you.

Terri