We're off to France in a few weeks where hopefully we'll be swapping one rural idyl for another. Greg has always been fascinated with the south of France, and I'm investigating "mad uncle Jack" - an artistic figure who loomed large in childhood stories due to his friendship with Van Gogh and Rodin.
My interest in great uncle Jack (better known in the Australian art world as John Peter Russell) is taking us off the coast of Brittany to an island called Belle Ile. I'm prepared for wild weather as stormy seas and the island's rugged landscape feature prominently in his paintings. After studying in Paris in the 1880s, Russell moved to Belle Ile with his Italian wife - ostensibly to form an artist colony. The idea of an artist colony must have been romantic - especially for young artists wishing to escape the massive changes taking place in the streets of Paris. We all know that Van Gogh opted to travel south to Arles in Provence, but Russell was attracted to the intensity of Belle Ile's landscape.
In common with this distant relative, Greg and I are working towards creating a space where artists can gather. We are planning to host weekend workshops at the Villa. Entitled "The Makers' Workshops", these weekends will offer a variety of activities for people who love to make things to enhance their living space. We're planning activities like stencilling, chalk painting, mosaics and ceramics - and are open to suggestions. The schedule will be finalised when we return from France, but if you wish to be added to our mailing list please email [email protected]
Below are some examples of our pursuits: Jane's mosaic floor and Greg's porcelain coffee set.
Below are some examples of our pursuits: Jane's mosaic floor and Greg's porcelain coffee set.
We're ready for a holiday. When the builders feel like your best friends, it's time for a break! On the upside, I no longer cringe at the continual noise and dust. After months of repairs and renovations, the end is in sight .... and so is France!