ASK an artist what brings them to France and they will often reply ‘the light’ and it was no different for a group slowly working on their watercolours in the courtyard of La Borie du Four.
Set just outside Villefranche du Perigord in the Dordogne, La Borie, was playing host to a week of exercises in perspective, painting trips to bastide towns and the occasional glass of red.
The week is organised by Joanne Quittner whose two gîtes provide a base for ten artists to work alongside illustrator and art lecturer Michael Walsh.
“The course gives people of all abilities the chance to take in the countryside, the villages and the life of this area of France,” Joanne said.
“During the first couple of days we let everyone settle in a little and work around La Borie but then we head off to Monpazier, where people get the chance to paint in the square.
“And then it is off to the Dordogne river and the village of La Rocque Cageac with its incredible setting, so there are plenty of opportunities for people to learn new things.”
Artist Michael Walsh offers gentle promptings and advice as the guests work away at cloud formations under the afternoon sun.
And for Michael it is a chance to take in some of his favourite architecture.
“I enjoy painting the bastide towns of the region and somewhere like Monpazier is a classic example,” Michael said.
“It is also a chance for me to experience a different area as I live in the Lot and Garonne which offers different challenges.
“The light is different than back in the UK but wherever you are the difficulties of painting perspective never change.”
The course was initially set-up by Joanne to offer potential clients something a little different outside the popular summer holiday periods.
But it also means that promoting them and ensuring they run smoothly falls on Joanne’s shoulders.
“I like to make guests feel that it is a home-from-home but that means organising breakfasts and being available throughout the day if required,” said Joanne.
“But if you want to extend your season, which is the reason for the courses, then you have to market it well, which has seen me look at the public relations and design side of things.
“Obviously it costs money, but my first impressions are that people are enjoying the courses and I’m always open to feedback so that I can improve things where required.”
And even though Joanne has spent a lot of time and effort on the project she still has enough energy to commit to a new challenge, marathon running.
“I completed the London marathon this year in five hours, I’m set to run in New York later this year.
“But I’m really looking forward to running the Great Wall of China marathon in two years time. I can’t wait.”
Related article:
Running an art course in the Dordogne