Watercolor painting workshop in Virieu, on Giacomino’s footsteps.
“A most gracious hostess, Chantal Pinaud, granted us a beautiful vista and invited us to paint in her gardens. Although it drizzled and was a bit chilly most of the day, we could not be torn away from our first painting opportunity. Even as the paint refused to dry and little rain droplets did their own special effects on our paintings, we found ourselves entrenched in our positions, determined to finish and conquer our creative obstacles”. Linda Carroll
Here is a picture o f Linda in Chantal’s garden
Here is Linda’s painting of Chantal’s house.
After our painting session, we were invited by Louis Fournier, Chantal’s neighbor. He invited us in his house and served us walnut wine, a local specialty made by his 88 years old mother. Louis wrote a book about the Virieu village. Everyone decided to buy his book. He was kind enough to dedicate every book ( see picture). This was an unique experience and Shelley is sure that this day will be the most memorable and meaningful experience of her trip. From L to R: Jackie, Kathy, Chantal (our hostess in yellow), Shelley, Louis dedicating his books, Linda, Josephine and Sandy.
Since Bonnie was not with us (she stayed home to paint from the house), here is a picture of her when she was still in Chantal’s garden painting her irises.
My name is Jackie Grandchamps. In 2003, I founded French Escapade, offering another way to travel in small groups of 8. "Don't be a tourist, be our guest" is the moto and spirit of my company.
Check www.frenchescapade.com
Through this blog, I will provide information about France, Belgium, California, (soon Italy) but also some stories from my guests on the tours.
Learn more about the company in the French Escapade section of this blog.
May 30th, 2008 at 12:43 pm
I have been looking forward to seeing these pictures since I am an old friend of Bonnie Crosse. I know she loves her Iris, and painting them, so a little rain would not bother her. But she could have at least turned her face to the camera for us that were left at home.
By the way I hope she learned that her dog is A OK.
I don’t paint but would love to take a trip to “your house” some day. Looks beautiful and your Blog is so lovely to receive.
Bonnie Burke, Sunnyvale California
June 2nd, 2008 at 10:23 pm
It looks wonderful – and I’m so glad you included a photo of Bonnie the artist in residence – as I was worried that she was not with the group.
Hello to all – happy painting and happy eating.
bonsoir.
Catherine
June 3rd, 2008 at 7:55 am
Paint on!! So glad that you are having this adventure into beauty.
December 10th, 2009 at 12:04 pm
Hello.. i came here to check out and get inspiration from ur watercolor art workshop to paint at home.. You all seemed like you had a great time. Then again, a workshop with like minded people is always fun. You get to share ideas and learn so much from each other..
December 29th, 2009 at 9:12 am
Yes the workshops are really fun and inspirational. We only have a few spots left for the one workshop in the Alps next year. Check it out at http://www.frenchescapade.com