French doorways and windows
27 05 2009If anyone were to look at the hundreds of travel photos I’ve taken, they’d soon see I have a thing for French and Italian doors and windows. Especially in the rural villages, the French and Italians seem to have a thing for them too. They are always so lovingly adorned with fresh flowers and tiny gardens– along the steps and window sills, and even climbing up the wall.
Since I won’t be going to Europe this year ( :-( ), I thought I’d celebrate my delight for this charming tradition by armchair traveling (easel traveling?) with a little series on the subject. Here are the first two, both of southern France, both measuring 8×6″ (and both soon to be uploaded to my website. Meanwhile, contact me for additional details.)
“Shadow Play,” Oil on canvas
“Garland Welcome”, Oil on canvas
I may use some of these small works as studies to develop larger pieces. Others may not translate and will remain as little vignettes. Working small is often a nice way to figure out compositional considerations and problem-solve in other areas before tackling something larger, without such great investment of paint and canvas. You’d think with such small paintings, the time investment would be less as well, though unfortunately that ain’t necessarily so!
Site Search Tags:art, artist, artistic inspiration, art travels, floral art, France, french paintings, French village painting, garden paintings, impressionism, jennifer young, oil painting, paintings for sale, paintings of flowers, Provence, provence paintings, small works, southern france, street scene, vignette
Jennifer
Young; Vibrant LandscapesOil Paintings and Art Prints Online
My Website
Subscribe to my newsletter
Subscribe to my blog
Contact Me!
I know that doors and windows are often a favorite subject for artists and collectors alike. I wonder what it is? I am certainly drawn by their beauty and intrigue. I guess it is the question evoked-”what lies beyond”- but I also think that the rectangle of both window and doors creates a strong and natural “focal” point in any composition. Symbolism is another thing to consider. The door and window can have a personal connection on so many levels.
These are lovely, intimate little pieces that seem to be the right size for the subject. Your bright colors are alive with life and possibilities, nicely done!
I think you’re onto something Marilyn. From an artistic perspective portals draw the eye right to them like a bullseye. You mentioned intimacey, and to me they also create that sense- inviting the viewer to take an active role to either mentally step through, or create a story of what remains hidden. Regarding the size, I do think the first one works best at a small size. The second one (Garland Entry) has enough detail that it might make me want to explore it again on a somewhat larger scale.