We meet the group

On Friday, the group of painters arrived and we finally had the chance to meet Elizabeth Mowry, my favourite living artist and author of three inspirational books on painting (The Poetic Landscape, The Pastelist's Year, and Landscape Meditations). Elizabeth, despite her amazing talent and significant accomplishments, turned out to be as modest, quiet, and unassuming as you could ever hope. Nevertheless, her clear vision and gentle teaching proved to be not only inspirational but extremely practical and useful. I am very grateful to have had the chance to spend ten days with this extraordinary woman, and hope to be able to count her among my friends in the years ahead.


The rest of the group was made up of Americans, who proved to be great fun and accomplished artists in their own right. I learned lots from them, as well, and we very much enjoyed observing how all these different artists interpreted the same landscape. It was a pleasure to be among such creative folks, and we look forward to continuing to deepen our friendship with them over the years, as well! Next April in Pennsylvania, Eileen and Geraldine!!

Our first painting day was in a small field nearby covered in blue wildflowers (Echium vulgare, also known as vipers' bugloss--not very poetic names, but a beautiful vision nevertheless!). I will cherish Elizabeth's small field study of this site I was able to purchase from her during the workshop (the one below is my attempt at the scene).

Taking advantage of one of the rare sunny days, our host William took us on Sunday to another local field, this time of lavender. Lavender is more commonly grown further south in France, in Provence, so thanks to William for scouting out this fantastic painting site! What a wonderful day, accented by a delicious baguette lunch packed by Rosalie.