My first adventure in France going solo began with three days staying with friends in Paris. During this time of very pleasant weather I managed to visit the Musee de la Toile de Jouy, an exhibition of paintings of Versailles in the times of Louis XIV and the gardens of Albert Kahn. Together with enjoying the hospitality of our friends Raymond and Genevieve.
Then the challenge commenced with my train journey to Limoges and then on to Chabanais – the train that never appeared, and I still don't know why. But on questioning the station master at Limoges I was put in a taxi to Chabanais where I met my host for the next week, Barbara.
During my week of water colour painting I faced several challenges, commencing with a portrait drawing of Barbara's son ( a very patient young man – earning a euro or two). Not something I have ever drawn before. Each day commenced with a different aspect of painting which was followed in the afternoon with a visit outdoors to explore the method further.
Our visits included Rochechouart Chateau, including the Museum of contemporary art; a return visit to the very picturesque village of Brantome; the lively Piegut Market; Videix Lake; a very beautiful private Charente garden; a visit to a Porcelain factory shop; drawing at the site de Corot, St Junien and the local woods. Many of these venues presented me with new challenges which were enjoyable and sometimes surprised even me with the results in the time constraints. Now I have to put all this into practise. The week of sketching and painting was also complimented by the homely meals provided by Barbara's partner, Dursin.
A cute little country train trip and a bus finally got me back to Limoges where I would have had about 2 minutes to spare had the train been on time!!!! And a rendezvous on the 3630 with Randall!!!
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