Provence Invites Creativity Driving through towards Moulin de Gréoux, a soft evening light brushed the limestone spires of the Alpilles. At the same time, the olive groves and vineyards near Les Baux de Provence and Maussane created a multi-hued quilt of green vegetation. I did wonder how one might capture …

Provence is abuzz this time of year with fabulous offerings of art, music, opera, film, wine tastings, and the usual fêtes that move from village to village. We travelled from New England to Provence last month specifically for this show by French painter Gérard Isirdi at Château Barbebelle in Rognes, …

With so many things closed right now, maybe seizing the opportunity of a sunny January day to wrap up and have a walk around some purely Provencal sites might be just the ticket to lift the spirits; and if you’re not in Provence right now, these seven art walks may …

Until the end of October, Fondation Vincent van Gogh Arles presents an exhibition bringing together new works by the American artist Laura Owens with seven paintings by Van Gogh, most made in and around Arles. Van Gogh hardly needs an introduction, but here’s what the gallery writes about Laura Owens: …

Statues have graced the world for thousands of years, in cathedrals, museums, and sculpture gardens. But now visitors to Marseille will be able to enjoy them in a new location—underwater. The Underwater Museum of Marseille (Musée Subaquatique de Marseille) recently opened its doors, so to speak, with ten newly-created sculptures …

The South of France has long attracted artists and creative types who were inspired by the natural beauty. Vincent Van Gogh followed his dream to Arles. Paul Cézanne returned to his beloved Aix-en-Provence after time spent in Paris. Paul Gaughin accepted Van Gogh’s invitation to head south and participate in …

Carrières de Lumières, the former quarry now a centre for immersive art displays, has announced its theme for 2021, and it should prove popular with the Aixois. The 2021 show, at Les Baux de Provence, will celebrate the work of Paul Cezanne. This show’s design and production are being masterminded …

After leaving Aix-en-Provence and its busy neighbourhoods, the winding road descends through a forest of pine trees and cork-oaks. After a 15km drive, at the bottom of a small valley, the eye catches a glimpse of metallic silver reflections. You have arrived at Château La Coste. Impressive concrete gates (from superstar …

The 18th-century country house, Jas de Bouffan, which was home to the Cezanne family for 40 years, was closed over a year ago for renovation.  I went in for a visit on its last day of opening, and my goodness, it needed renovation: think cold, damp, pieces of plaster hanging …

Cannes Underwater Museum Just 15 minutes by ferry from Cannes, the two Lérins islands, Saint Honorat and Saint-Marguerite, are a popular destination for those hoping to spend a day enjoying the Mediterranean. Now, there is another reason to visit sculptures by Jason deCaires Taylor. The area reserved for swimmers and …