What a privilege to have hosted this fun bunch of ladies over the past five days! Under the expert eye of artist Michelle Boyle, they packed their paints, went out into the vineyards of Grand Champagne and practiced and perfected their art “en plein air”.  

 

And what talent too!  Inspired by the landscapes and Michelle’s tuition, the creativity flowed and the results spoke for themselves. Beautiful pieces one and all! 

 

And after the days of pleasurable painting, came the evenings around the table of Maggy’s warm and welcoming home, being spoilt by the our wonderful hostess – who served up an array of dishes inspired by and infused with local ingredients – amongst them Pineau and Cognac of course.  Breakfasts, lunches, dinners and apéros all prepared with love and enjoyed by all (& the French picnic on the last day was simply full of Maggy-magic!).

 

The weather was changeable and once or twice during the retreat, the heavens opened.  But in perfect synchronicity so too did the doors of the local Chabram School of Contemporary Art, which provided refuge and inspiration in equal measure!

 

Also inspiring our time in Chateauneuf, ambling through the streets and sipping coffee along the banks of the Charente river, while capturing the water and weir in watercolours.  And the afternoon visit to Les Jardins du Chaignes – an oasis of calm – and just the right venue for a little impromptu yoga!

 

The days passed in a flash but the memories remain. Thank you Michelle and thank you ladies for your fun and laughter and for making our time together such a wonderful, memorable experience.