This Time with People! Crossroad at Santana Row

Popped by Santana Row for another drawing session before dinner, this time including some passer-bys under the bright sun! I haven't felt the sun moving so much before, since I didn't realize I was standing under the shade of a palm tree. I was forced to move one step forward every 5 minutes or so to keep myself in the shade until I finally gave up and pulled out my sunglasses. And then the shadow from the buildings behind me caught on and all problems were solved!

Sun, Buildings, and Shades! at Santana Row, San Jose

Dropped by Santana Row (outdoor shopping complex) this afternoon to do a few studies. I wasn't expecting much because the complex was completed only in 2003 and I'm mostly interested in dated buildings...but I was pleasantly surprised! Not only was there bike parking (there's not even any roads with decent bike lanes feeding into the complex!), the fences that surround the trees have a flat surface that is perfect for my water jar and palette while the tree provides ample shade against the raging afternoon sun!

Pink building with fancy balcony fences

Right across the street, a performing arts centre I believe

The shadow is so stunning in this view that I couldn't resist painting it in full! A nice couple stopped to say hi and then asked if I was Japanese. I was a bit surprised, said no...and then ask them if they were Japanese, and they got even more confused than I was haha