Trip to France

I have just returned from a 12 day trip to France. I was in France to participate in an art workshop with Richard McKinley, whom I have been working with for over a year whenever possible. The workshop was held at Haut Baran, a privately owned French chateau in the Lot Valley, two hours outside of Toulouse (photo above). The owners, William and Rosalie Haas are Americans, although William's family is from France and he spent his summers there from a very early age. They purchased the chateau and converted it into a location for retreats for groups. They specialize in art groups and gourmet cooking groups. The location is stunning, the hospitality is superb, and the food served is truly an experience itself!

Richard is a gifted artist and teacher and strives to provide a rewarding learning experience for each participant. Because of this it is very difficult to get into one of his workshops as they fill immediately and always have wait lists. However, the economy had an impact on this workshop resulting in only 8 artists. This small group meant lots of one on one time for each artist with Richard. We started each morning with breakfast at 8 or 8:30 and worked until dinner which was usually around 7:30 or 8:00 pm. We painted at the Haut Baran itself as well as at various towns and small villages within 15 minutes drive. We also took advantage of opportunities to experience the French culture by visiting a historical watermill, a village street market, and walks through the small villages. We also had the wonderful opportunity to visit Peche Merle to tour the caves containing prehistoric art. Truly inspiring!

In upcoming blog entries I will share some of the artwork I created during the workshop. As always, workshop settings are for learning and trying new things....which means that the pieces often are not completed during the workshop. I need to photograph the completed pieces and work to complete the unfinished pieces in the days to come. First, though.......I need to recover from the jet lag.....the nine hour time difference and long flights definitely take some recovery time! Needless to say....it was definitely worth it!