Subway Sketches

Back years ago, before Covid, I used to sketch subway commuters, when I used to take the subway. Every Friday morning, I would head out to Queens for music lessons. To kill time, I would have a small sketchbook with me, drawing/sketching the commuters. I recently posted them on Linkedin and other social media platforms.

I drew commuters for a few years in a variety of sketchbooks. Since Covid, I haven’t been back on the subway in over three years. Back then, I wanted to get my drawing chops in the morning, so why not draw people in the subway? Great way to kill time.

My last day in the subway was March 13, 2020. 50th Street subway station. These sketches catch a glimpse of New York City life, quick renderings of people riding the subway. People on their iPhones, lost in thought or taking a quick nap. It’s always great to draw from life, because you not only keeping your drawing skills sharp, but you’re recording a piece of history on blank pages.

Looking at these sketches now…it’s as if I see glimpses of a world that doesn’t exist anymore. I see everything pre Covid or post Covid. These sketches were from a pre Covid world. I never thought I would never ride the subway. Maybe one day, but who knows.