Urban Sketching in Panama
I lived in Gamboa, Panama for four years while I was in graduate school. Since then, I’ve returned many times but only twice as an artist and sketcher. In March, I spent three weeks in this tiny town situated alongside the Panama Canal.
Even though I know this place very well, I always discover new perspectives on the location. This is one of the wonderful benefits of sketching: it allows me to slow down and take in details that I would have missed otherwise.
This small lighthouse is perched on a hill that was created using spoil from the digging of the canal. The lighthouse itself was probably constructed around 1915-1917 and is no longer in use. The little building at the bottom of the hill has been decorated with lovely murals and the artist cleverly positioned the giant agouti to appear as if it’s sitting on the slope of the hill.
Many of the buildings hold precious memories for me. My husband and I lived in this house in 1994 as newlyweds. This neighborhood was called the Ridge and when we lived here, it was a bustling community. Since then, the property was purchased as part of a hotel development and most of the houses are empty now, including this one.
The concrete foundation and steps are all that remain of Our Lady of Good Counsel which was built in 1937. Termites and time destroyed the original wooden structure long ago. There is, however, a determined little community of Catholics who gather for Mass here when a priest is available. I spent Holy Week with them in 2024 and was able to attend Mass here again this year.
The Gamboa Union Church is a beloved landmark in Gamboa and it seemed natural to make the prominent sign into the focal point. I’ve passed this church countless times during my many trips but had never really looked closely at it until I stood on the sidewalk making the sketch.
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