Easter weekend has come and gone, but I remember that wonderful Sunday morning in Chicago. We attended a church service at Fourth Presbyterian on Chestnut and Michigan Avenue. Though we got there 30 minutes early, we had to stand outside in a long line. Well-dressed worshipers waited with us and I watched people get out at the curb from cars and taxis as the church ushers served us hot apple cider in paper cups. The weather was slightly chilly but sunny. I decided to stand and sketch the John Hancock building, which was literally right across the street. I decided to sketch looking up at this amazing skyscraper, but also added in people and other things. Watercolor was done later.
The first service let out and we finally got to move slowly into the church. This amazing Gothic Revival church was designed by architect Ralph Adams Cram. The cornerstone was laid in 1912 and the church was dedicated in 1914. The architecture both inside and out is absolutely amazing! See this link to read more….
The service was packed and very moving, especially as a few pieces from Handel’s Messiah were sung by the choir. It was a beautiful experience, both with the magnificant setting and the service. I sketched in pencil quickly, then outlined with pen and watercolor later. It is a great memory of a beautiful day!
