Thursday, July 14, 2011

Manoir de Maison Blanche ~ Paris


Last week I conducted a 5-day class at one of the world's premier workshop destinations, Manoir de Maison Blanche, in the Dordogne region of France. Created and run by Alain and Véronique Duvivier, the Manoir is a magical place combining unparalleled atmosphere amongst 16th C. architecture, fabulous cuisine, and instruction from the top artists in watercolor such as Janine Gallizia, Alvaro Castagnet, and Joseph Zbukvic. A wonderful group of painters came from France, Belgium, and Spain, convening in the ancient barn converted to a modern studio. Translation was provided by the lovely and charming Berice whose talent for several languages was indispensable. I had the opportunity to finally meet some internet pals, and reunite with Janine (champagne time, see pic!) The week also included a side trip to a renowned foie gras farm where I made friends with a llama. Superb apertif hours, extended dinners, games, singing, and general frivolity provided a lot of memories that I'll hold dear. Oh...we did lots of painting, too!

I'm thrilled to return to Maison Blanche next year for another week, June 18-22. This workshop will sell out quickly, so contact the Manoir early for reservations.

After the workshop, I relaxed a few days in Paris to soak up even more inspiration. C'est magnifique!













8 comments:

Unknown said...

Fabulous! I am hoping to come next year!

cardesin said...

Wowwww!!!

Anonymous said...

Great atmosphere, friends and workshop. Look forward next year !

olivia said...

Seems to be a wonderful time Nick.
Oui,c'est mangnifique !

Helen Ström said...

Sounds tempting!!!

Nancy Lee Galloway said...

Looks like a great time was had by all...including the llama who, for some reason, matches you in this picture. :) By that I meant the cunning color coordination you two managed to achieve!

Shirley Hummel Maranda said...

Dear Nicholas: This is a long way from the little boy who made a trip to Maine in the 80's.

Jose Sanchez said...

maravilloso, uff menudo sitio.