Poppy Profusion for Painting Workshops

SPRINGTIME IN PROVENCE — An unusually rainy spring led to more bountiful flowers in the landscape for my two oil-painting workshops in May. In spite of some rainy days, we journeyed out en plein air to experience nature and allow our inner poetry to emerge on the canvas.

Facing our creative fears

We push ourselves to grow as artists by experiencing Nature firsthand. After all, the unpredictable weather often pushes us out of our comfort zone – the nearing thunderclaps encourage us to paint quickly and freely, the wind whipping up gives us motion to capture on canvas, and the swiftly moving clouds change the light and colors of the landscape right before our eyes – there is no time to get bogged down by the intellect!

L’Art de Vivre

Workshoppers are not only exposed to the French landscapes, but the food as well. Throughout the week, our painting breaks give us a chance to savor the local flavors of traditional Provençal meals and experience life at the French table. We take a break from the heat of the day to sit under shady trees in the company of friends – this is the famous French art de vivre that brings visitors back to Provence again and again.

“Jill – thank you so much for your heartfelt time, effort and passion for giving us one of the most fabulous experiences. You, your family and your friends are such caring people and made the entire week so special for all of us. It was a trip of a lifetime! Plus, I personally learned so many great things from the workshop that I can use as I continue to perfect my plein air skills!”

-Laura