The Reluctant Picador

I was moved by a promotional photo seen in a shop window in Ronda, Spain. This scene of an aging picador in full uniform standing in front of his horse also wearing the traditional (often inadequate) armor and padding, probably during opening ceremonies.  I never attended a bullfight and have no desire.  But subjects in this scene  capture not only a pageantry and tradition (and supporting commerce) in Spain, but also a melancholy mood, perhaps for a tradition which is falling out of favor with modern sensibilities - possibly hastened by EU homogenizing of cultures.  Each viewer will devise their own interpretation. Conversation can follow.

This is my first finished drawing from our trip , not a sketch from my sketchbook. Other sketches will probably emerge over time into drawings as my mood and research-driven motivation dictate.  

Hopefully, this series from my sketchbook gives an idea of why I sketch while traveling - to capture not only the scene (a photograph can do that) but also a story, the mood, the music, the cool breeze or warm sun or dramatic shadow, and  amplify them artistically to appeal to each viewer.  

'Hope you enjoyed my sharing the impact of these memories with you.