La Grand Rue, Callian . Oil on panel 12" x 8"
For my second outing in this wonderful place called Provence I was once more back in Callian, a hill top town steeped in history. I asked to go back to it because I had noticed this fantastic old street at its heart and dearly wanted to have a go at painting it. Well two and a half hours later it was kind of done, chasing light was my enemy as always. I was pleased with the result, but boy was I ready for a glass of wine at lunchtime, and some bread and cheese of course. Standing for all that time and putting so much energy into a passage is very exacting and deserving of a break.
The Muse's House, Callian 8" x 6" oil on panel
After lunch was over I stayed at the cafe and noticed this beautiful display of flowers overhanging a balcony next to me. Well I had heard that an extremely old lady who in her day had been a muse for a well known artist locally lived in the house and was a complete recluse. I had to paint it, indeed the elderly resident was watching me, as several times the curtain would move and part slightly allowing her a glimpse of my activities from her darkened room. I hope that she would have approved of my efforts.
I will add more tomorrow. I will show you day 3 in the Cote D Azur at St Rafael beach.
What a wonderful story, Paul! I'm sure she would have approved. The story reminds me of the Musee Maillol in Paris which was founded by one of Maillol's models and close friend, Dina Vierny. I think model and artist can often build up a strong, interesting relationship and it's wonderful when they tell the tales thay have to tell.
ReplyDeleteGreat work on the composition in the top piece, the curving road really adds some mystery.