Monday, October 18, 2010

South of France

"Sunflowers in Arles"
28.5" x 32.5"
sold

Arles was one of my favorite cities in France when I visited as a guest of one of my patrons 15 years ago. The "light" in Provence is magical.  Words describing it are weak in comparison to the experience of being there.  Seeing it.  Savoring it.  Whether enjoying the architecture and gardens or meandering through the streets I recall how beautiful the colors were.  Everything seemed so vivid.  So true to life!  And as the shadows became longer as the hours progressed, objects were well defined.  Perfect for oil paints mixed onto palettes by Van Gogh and Gaugain in the late 1880's.  Perfect for artists in every decade.

SUNFLOWER FIELD was created from a photo I had taken of a farmhouse on the outskirts of the city.  Early July, sunflowers are in full bloom and the flowers are harvested for oil used in cooking. I've loved creating paintings from this photo as I've used it for reference numerous times. All originals have been acquired by private collectors over the years.

http://www.christinenauman.com