Sketching at the Manhattan School of Fencing

Not so easy.  Sitting and watching with the intention of sketching, the first thing you notice is there's constant motion.  Further study and you detect that the fencers invariably have a moment when they pause before an attack.  It's a moment that quivers with energy.  Then you notice there's a repetition to what's happening, like the beats and steps in a ballet.

Sizing up the Opponent

The school is a testimony to the wholesomeness of the sport of fencing.   There's a large sign that features the names of students who have gone on to prestigious universities.   Even more impressive is the sign that shows students who have competed in the Olympics.

The Student and the Instructor

The last thing you notice is that fencing is a thorough and exhausting workout.  This last sketch is of a fencer who sat on the floor texting after his workout with a private coach.  He was drenched in sweat, but seemed pleased with the session he'd just completed.

Texting After the Workout

Many thanks to Julia Gelman who gave us special permission to visit her school. The teachers and students could not have been more hospitable.