Paris is quite possibly, the most beautiful city in the world. It has all of the things I love: Art, culture, history, fashion, food and the French language. And now it's even better for another reason: Fearless Abstract Painting. Making a "Top Ten" list proved to be incredibly difficult. Here are some highlights, although it does not begin to encompass the magic I experienced: 1. Pont Alexandre III (Alexander III bridge)Quite possibly, the most beautiful bridge in the world. I saw two weddings being photographed here on the same day. 2. Best FoodQuite possibly, the best food in the world. 3. Street ArtWhile it's obvious that Paris has a graffiti issue, sometimes it's just so damn cool. 4. Le MarcheOne of my favorite things about visiting Paris is to enjoy wandering through a traditional French market. And why not! The market, "le marché", is an integral part of life in virtually all of France. 5. Saint-Genmain-en-LayeOne of the best parts of the trip was taking the metro to our painting studio located in Saint-Germaine. The jaw-dropping views of the French country side made me feel like I was dreaming with my eyes open. 6. Painting StudioWe could not have chosen a more perfect painting "atelier". Lots of room, gorgeous sky lights and the setting. Oh my goodness the setting! Check out the colors, the moss, the roof tiles, the peeling paint, the history! Talk about inspiring. 7. The Fearless FiveMy Fearless in Paris painting students. (The two good looking men smiling in the background weren't bad either) 8. Jardin de TuileriesWhat can I say? Gorgeous. 9. The Eiffel Tower at NightSigh. No, there is nothing quite like it. Mesmerizing during the day and magical at night. 10. La Maison Angelina11. The MetroYou have not had hot chocolate until you've had it from Angelina's. And I don't even like chocolate. Funny how the thing that gave me the most anxiety prior to my trip turned out to be one of my favorite activities. Sure, I made mistakes, but who doesn't when you're learning something new? Once I figured it out, I even helped someone with directions. Ha! 12. Flashdance - The MusicalCan you believe I had never heard of Flashdance until I saw it on stage, in French? I loved it. One of the best things about it was the theater: Théâtre du Gymnase. Built in the 1820's I imagine it hasn't changed much since then. 13.Getting My Parisian OnMinimal make-up, absolutely no lipstick, wind blown hair, scarves, scarves and more scarves, heels, absolutely no holes on jeans and of course, black. My ultimate indulgence? Getting my hair cut at David Mallet; white peacocks and all. 14. VersaillesYes, it's everything they say it is. 15. Best FoodDid I already mention food? Of course I did. But it deserves to be mentioned again because it really is, awesome. Other Paris highlights:Paris bus tour, Musee D'Orsay, Musee Des Beaux Arts, shopping for art supplies, fois gras, figs & champagne,
being referred to as "Madame daSilva", the humidity, the well-dressed men, the well-dressed everybody, the gypsy accordian player on the metro, being compared to one of Picasso's models (although I don't think we looked anything alike, I'll take it), learning about French history and customs from a local, touring with a local, the coffee, French hair, Edith Pilaf, Montmartre, Notre Dame, Sacre Coeur, being asked for directions because, and I quote: "I thought you were from here", visiting the Parisian second hand & vintage shops, and last, but certainly not least, the tomato.
Miriam
2/24/2015 12:34:59 am
It is so good to know how much you enjoyed this trip!!!! you inspire me to be more bold.
Michelle
2/24/2015 02:24:02 am
I too love Paris. Last time, we found the locks, and a man doing Tai Chai early Sunday morning in a communal garden. Wish I'd been there with your class!
Alice
2/24/2015 02:36:33 pm
Loving your pictures and I'm so sad that I missed your class there - it looks amazing! Can't wait to see what this latest trip has inspired!! Comments are closed.
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This blog was created to share my belief that the art-making process is a catalyst for transformation and personal empowerment. I am living proof.
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