Street Artists in Saint Tropez

October 19th, 2008 by discover

Street Artist on the Harbor at Saint Tropez

One of my favorite things about walking along the waterfront in Saint Tropez are the street artists who sell their paintings.

Some of them, of course, strike my fancy more than others. There are some real treasures to be found – and some that are, well, Not.

This time there was a portrait painter – who was doing a drawing in chalk of a little blond boy when we walked by – she was really amazing – I didn’t take a photo though, it felt like stealing!

I spoke with one of the artists, his name is John – “Just John”, he said. He had a wonderful Scottish burr, and said he’s retired. He used to come to the French Riviera with his wife every year, and a few years ago, after her death, he said one day he just decided to sell everything and “Chuck it all in” – and move to the French Riviera.

Now he paints in the wintertime and then sells his work in the spring and summer. He’s got some wonderful landscapes, especially of the Provence lavendar fields – which happens to be one of my favorite subjects to take pictures of. However, John declined to be photographed, so I can’t show you how wonderful his work is. (However, if you’re planning a trip to the French Riviera, make sure to stop by and see it for yourself!)

By the way, if you like painting, why not consider taking a working vacation to the French Riviera? You can take painting classes from a certified painting instructor for up to three hours a day, and then spend the rest of your time wandering around getting inspiration as you discover the French Riviera…

You can also find people who will help you brush up on your conversational French, learn photography or take French cooking classes from real French chefs.

Life is short – if you’ve ever wanted to enjoy the French lifestyle, what are you waiting for?