Vincent's Provence: Landscapes in Glass
Provence, located in southeastern France, is renowned for its enchanting charm, captivating visitors with its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and timeless atmosphere. The region’s dramatic landscapes, distinctive light, and deep historical and artistic legacy make it a haven for artists seeking inspiration and a retreat from everyday life.
Many celebrated artists, including Vincent van Gogh, Paul Cézanne, Henri Matisse, Raoul Dufy, and André Derain, have left their mark on Provence, shaping its reputation as a place of profound artistic inspiration.
On my first visit to Provence, especially to the city of Arles, where Van Gogh had pivotal experiences, I felt a deep sense of reverence. It was here that he created many of his iconic works. Eager to connect with his world, I explored both famous and lesser-known sites related to him. Six months later, I returned to Provence with the intent of capturing its beauty through my own art.
The region’s exceptional light and vibrant colors captivated me. The Alpilles rich palette—azure evening skies, soft yellow stucco houses with blue shutters, and lush olive groves—creates a picturesque landscape. The intense Mediterranean tones and the varied colors of the Camargue, along with the stark whites and deep blues of shadows, further enhance the visual appeal.
For over twenty years, I’ve been fascinated by glass bead making, drawn to its blend of ancient tradition and modern creativity. This art form allows for personal, intricate creations in a home studio, using techniques akin to those in hot shop glasswork, but on a miniature scale.
Inspired by Van Gogh’s impasto technique, I experimented with glass textures that mimic the thick paint layers he used. This approach, which I call "painting with glass," captures the spontaneity and dynamic energy of Van Gogh’s work.
This work resulted in a book, "Vincent's Provence: Landscapes in Glass" which may be purchased as an eBook on Amazon (link at the bottom of this page).
The beauty of Van Gogh’s Provence continues to inspire me, shaping my art as a tribute to his vision. I’m honored to contribute to his legacy through new artistic expressions. Van Gogh’s dream of an artists' colony in Provence, as mentioned in his letters to Émile Bernard, underscores the landscape’s profound influence on painters. Although Bernard never visited Arles, I believe he would have shared the same deep appreciation and inspiration that I have found in this remarkable region.
"Night Scene on the Rhône", Arles
This publication is now available in eBook format on Amazon!
(Click on the image to open up a link to Amazon to purchase. Link will open up in a new window.)
