I just returned from an amazing trip to visit and paint with two amazing fellow artists.  Mariethe’ Salort and Janet Weight Reed and I (along with Mariethe’s wonderful and amazing patient husband Yves) spent 10 amazing days exploring the magic of France.  We did amazing things every day, and painted when the weather allowed: photographed when it didn’t.  I want to post some highlights, and direct you to my Facebook page if you would like to see more photos of the trip:  http://www.facebook.com/bonnie.halseydutton

The painting shown here was inspired by a visit to Maison Fournaise, the restaurant which inspired Renoir’s “Luncheon of the Boating Party”.  Nowhere near competition to the masterworks which inspired my painting during this trip: exploring the feelings present when visiting these sites and emulating the source of inspiration was an exercise in calm and reflection.  We followed up by painting the village rooftops of Chatou.   I’m looking for some interaction here: anyone been here?  Thoughts?!