Join Artist Jill Douglas for Painting in Provence

It was 2015 when an opportunity dangled in front of Jill Douglas’s painting easel in Los Angeles. Could she help out for a few months at Atelier Fourwinds, an artist’s retreat, in the Alpilles village of Aureille?

Born in England, life took Jill to France and then to Southern California for an extended period. The timing was perfect, her urge to return to France had been growing stronger, and she seized the opportunity.

Home Sweet Provence

Now settled in Arles, France, Jill Douglas is painting and teaching in Provence. She invites others to join her to explore their creative abilities in the South of France. A self-taught painter, Jill comes from an artistic family. During her time in Los Angeles, Jill taught painting, drawing and colour theory classes at Brentwood Art Centre and in her Santa Monica studio. She continues to teach returning to Los Angeles a couple of times a year to work with former students.

“I was never more inspired and productive with my paintings as I was when enrolled in Jill’s class. Her insights and guidance were invaluable, and she’s also just a vibrant, fun, wonderful person to be around.” – Kirsten Getchell

Painting in Provence

The ever-changing light and scenery in Provence that captured the attention of famous artists Vincent Van Gogh, Paul Cézanne, and Pablo Picasso is now her muse. Jill describes the diverse natural landscapes around Arles, the protected natural parks of the Alpilles and the Camargue as offering endless inspiration for the central themes of her work; Spaces, Pods, Birds and Things.

Jill invites you to join her for private or small group painting lessons at her studio in Arles or further afield. Whether you are a novice or have years of experience, Jill customizes the experience to suit your level. Depending on your availability, options include half-day, full-day and multi-day classes. Sessions are available for a single person or small groups. The half-day session lasts roughly three hours. The full-day option includes a break for lunch and the possibility of painting in a few locations. Plein air painting sessions are entirely possible, weather permitting.

Discover the city where Vincent Van Gogh found his artistic inspiration and the chance to explore yours with this talented teacher.

If you are interested in booking a class with Jill:

Please contact us here

Carolyne Kauser-Abbott

With her camera and laptop close at hand, Carolyne has traded in her business suits for the world of freelance writing and blogging. Her first airplane ride at six months of age was her introduction to the exciting world of travel.

While in Provence, Carolyne can be found hiking with friends, riding the hills around the Alpilles or tackling Mont Ventoux. Her attachment to the region resonates in Perfectly Provence this digital magazine that she launched in 2014. This website is an opportunity to explore the best of the Mediterranean lifestyle (food & wine, places to stay, expat stories, books on the region, travel tips, real estate tips and more), through our contributors' articles.

Carolyne writes a food and travel blog Ginger and Nutmeg. Carolyne’s freelance articles can be found in Global Living Magazine, Avenue Magazine and City Palate (Published Travel Articles).