“Monica provides alfresco meals for guests in their garden and ‘chic picnics’ among the vines”
monkfi sh (lotte) and aiöli. She also loves the range of high- quality wines now produced in the Languedoc, many organic. As well as ‘gourmet meals’, the holidays include transport, materials and equipment. They are also off ered in the cooler months of June and September and are designed to accommodate all levels of painter from absolute beginner upwards. In addition, the couple off er single workshops ‘en plein air’ locally, and free live classes online for free via their YouTube channel and Facebook page, to help with promotion.
So, apart from choosing
picture-perfect locations, what are Simon’s top tips for creating a frame-worthy watercolour painting, or ‘aquarelle’ in French?: “Whatever scene you’re painting, be sure to add strong light and shade to add to the drama.” He adds that it’s important not to be afraid of the ‘canvas’ (making mistakes is how we learn) and above all to enjoy the experience. The repeat business that
Simon and Monica have been getting (their clientele comes mainly from the US, Australia and the UK) shows they’ve got their approach right. The feedback has been great too: “I would recommend this Painting Holiday for anyone who not only wants to sketch and watercolour a bit, but see the south of France, eat wonderful cuisine, and not have to think about anything except what will we be painting (or eating) next!”
WHAT NEXT?
As far as plans to develop Painting in France go, the couple are considering a roll-out to other parts of the country. This would provide more choice and complement the painting holidays in
Morocco that they off er in their portfolio (they off er holidays in Greece too, in partnership with another company). Plus, they’re planning to rent their property over the summer (complete with new pool) starting this year, so they can explore more of Europe and the Mediterranean, keeping an eye out for new holiday destinations at the same time. The couple are looking
to document their trips in interactive books aimed at foodies as well as adventurers. But nothing beats coming back home. Especially with so much to enjoy on the doorstep, and the prospect of providing more memorable holidays for their budding painter guests. ■
Clockwise from above: Guests enjoy gourmet dining alfresco in the couple’s garden; dishes such as this belle planche de fromage et charcuterie including local specialities can be sampled; (inset) Simon’s painting of St-Guilhem-le-Désert
painting-in-france.com FRENCH PROPERTY NEWS: July/August 2023 33
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