Some of you may remember that I wrote about my time spent in the South of France and having been invited to exhibit in the local Art Exhibition. Well, I can report that once again I exhibited in early June.
Because my pieces are all local, the villagers, although not rushing to buy, are clearly delighted to see that I am recording their area. In the artist’s eyes worn and shabby can be seen as beautiful and I am aware that things are changing, being renovated and refurbished. I am recording things as they have been but change can be seen.
Buildings used for the wine trade are gradually being taken over as their use changes.The Butcher’s shop was due to close in early summer. I painted it with its 1960s shop window implanted on a very ancient building. Surprisingly this painting sold and also many of my cards, which some people are beginning to collect.
Two of my paintings were bought by Canadians who are renovating what was known as ’La maison de Termites’. Termites can be a serious problem in this area. Later in September some friends called on the way to Carcasson. There the new proprietor in the ‘Marche Brittanique’, a shop aimed at tourists and Brits. who live in the area, told them that she would be interested to meet me and see my work. I went to see her amidst a cloud burst, the first rain for two months, and a very crowded town with claxons sounding out, etc. - the taxi drivers and pompiers were on strike. I parked by the Canal du Midi and in a few minutes was in the shop. There, Ann the proprietor, immediately bought all the cards I had with me and a few days later came to see my paintings in Douzens. She was very enthusiastic and took nine paintings to have as a display for the Christmas period.
After she left I felt quite bereft and my high white walls were very bare. So, what now? I’m realistic. When I return this year it would be reassuring to have sold at least one but at least they are there for the public to enjoy, I must now work hard scanning and printing my art work for more cards. I forgot to say that a local gite also sells my cards. Perhaps you are interested to know if I work plein air. Yes, I prefer to go on my bike, also I use my digital camera, which is such a boon. As I paint, people open their windows and greet me. This Autumn the streets had the rich smell of fruity wine because it was the the season of the vendage (grape harvest). The countryside yielded tasty snacks of grapes missed by the machines, almonds and walnuts, although the figs were finished. I made my fig jam in early August.
The textured buildings with red shutters often huddled together continue to inspire me. Walking, cycling, motoring, all is a joy in this unspoilt area. I’m only sorry I missed the glorious colours of the vines as they turn to all colours including deep crimson. Each vineyard and vine has a different colour. The area that I refer to is Aude, South of Carcasson.
Another piece of cultural news, I’ve joined the choir!
Christine Mallion