I was on my way to run some errands in Ginza but it was far too cold to go by bike, so I ventured down into the tube (something I rarely do). I settled into my favorite seat (at the end of the carriage, left arm over the window, right arm free to draw). I took out this little paper sample “book” (a fan of paper samples, really) someone gave me for free and has become one of my favorite sketchbooks; it’s small and practical for drawing in small spaces (and even while standing).

I started drawing in Roppongi, and two stations later just couldn’t stop. All these people came to sit in front of me. Like cheap (also free) models they would stay for a while, hardly moved, and then left as soon as I was done with their portraits — or when their station was reached.

Believe me, I could have sat there forever.