2025: Great Torii Gate, Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima

This drawing is of the famous Great Torii Gate of Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island. The area was incredibly busy, and it took me a while to find a spot to sit and draw. Eventually, I walked around to the other side and found a quieter place where I could sketch in peace.

I sat there for about an hour, absorbed in the drawing. The marks are loose and layered, capturing the structure of the gate and its reflection in the water. The bright red contrasts beautifully with the greens of the island behind. Partway through, one of the island’s deer took a keen interest in me—and my snacks. It did helpfully dispose of my banana skin, so all ended well.

Each print is the same size as the original sketchbook page. You can choose whether to include the sketchbook seam or not when ordering. Larger prints (25 x 21 cm) are £35, and smaller ones (23 x 12 cm or 17 x 14 cm) are £30. All prints are made on archival-quality Hahnemühle Fine Art paper.