Three local creatives are getting together next weekend to exhibit their work. ‘Profusion’, above, is typical of the exuberant and colourful impressionistic/abstract style of Barbara Pitcher. She works with oils, acrylics and mixed media to paint flowers and locations that resonate with her. Barbara Pitcher is a talented lady who …

The ‘Marseille Eternelle’ exhibition at the Musee Regards de Provence ends on March 1st, and if you catch this, you will also see the new ‘Lumieres du Sud’ show on the floor above. Beautiful paintings in an elegant gallery, all for 6€!

If you are inspired to visit Tourrettes Sur Loup, you should have time to call in to see Matisse’s famous chapel at nearby Vence, which the artist called his ‘masterpiece.’ Recovering in Nice from cancer, Matisse had hired young Monique Bourgeouis to nurse him and act as a model. Chapelle …

Aix must be a paradise for archaeologists: building work in town often yields ancient foundations and sewers, but sometimes sumptuous Roman mosaic dining room floors, everyday pottery and glass from the table, and even jewellery, oil lamps and statues. They dated from around 2000 years ago when Aix was the …

Violets are one of the first signs of spring, a welcome sight as they peep out from grassy banks and the undergrowth in woody areas. At Tourrettes sur Loup they are centre stage in the local economy and also in the annual Fete des Violettes.

What with Chandeleur in France and Pancake Tuesday in the UK, February is a good time to get whipping up some batter for pastries and crepes. But if you prefer to buy something in town, there’s lots of choice. The traditional pets de nonnes – nuns’ farts.

There seems to be an inexhaustible supply of famous French photographers – it must be a result of living in such a beautifully photogenic country. MUCEM’s current expo showcases the work of Raymond Dépardon and I found it to be a colourful and stimulating exhibition.

It cost 73 million euros and its stated purpose was to provide a focal point for meetings, conferences, films and exhibitions on matters Mediterranean; but it’s now been revealed that the upkeep and running costs for the Villa Mediterranée were 4.4 million euros last year, paid by the region.

Book In Bar is hosting a creative writing session on Saturday 14th February, from 11-13:00 hrs. Don’t know too much about the content but have checked that the workshop will be held in English as well as French. Participation is limited to 12 people so call the shop on 04 42 …

On the theme of helping people escape during the Occupation, here is a thrilling account of the experience of a Church of Scotland minister, Donald Caskie, who at great personal risk saved around 2000 Allied soldiers, sailors and airmen. He had been the minister at the Scots Kirk.