August 6-13, 2024
FULL
Greece Art Trek
May 17-24, 2025
Only a few spaces left!
Switzerland Art Trek
July 26 – August 2, 2025
Tuscany Foodie Trek Trek
September 27 - October 4, 2025
4 Spaces Left!
Contemporary Impressionistic Palette Knife Oil Paintings www.NikiGulley.com
x***
Heavenly Valley will be on display at:
"Postcards from Abroad - How Artistic Spouses See the World"
Two Person Show Featuring Niki Gulley and Scott Williams
January 8 – February 22, 2024
Today we checked out of our hotel and headed to Provence's cultural hub and Cezanne's home, Aix-en-Provence. After visiting its famous Cours Mirabeau boulevard, lined with cafés and plane trees, we toured its morning produce and flower market. Buzzing with activity and bursting with color from all of the beautiful flower arrangements, I had to capture the energy and excitement on canvas!
After a peaceful day in the countryside, we headed to the Luberon hill towns today. Starting our journey at the Abbey de Senanque, some of our group toured the twelfth century sanctuary's interior, while others painted and photographed the lavender fields and grounds surrounding the abbey. Next we traveled to the red and gold colored town of Roussillon, known for its ochre cliffs. Filled with picturesque views, art galleries, restaurants and interesting shops, everyone enjoyed having some free time to wander before we took off for the Pont Julien bridge.
The Roman bridge, dating from 3 BC and constructed without mortar, is an architectural marvel that was still driven on until 2005! After surveying the bridge, we headed back to our b and b. Dinner that night was traditional Provencal fare, including fresh vegetables, fish, meats, and goat cheeses loaded with delicious sauces, garlic and butter. Yum!
x***
Just Sold! Today we checked out of our hotel and headed to Provence's cultural hub and Cezanne's home, Aix-en-Provence. After visiting its famous Cours Mirabeau boulevard, lined with cafés and plane trees and its morning produce and flower market, we parted from the photographers and set up our easels at this picturesque fountain courtyard. Having several hours to paint, we thoroughly enjoyed the beautiful day and each painter's unique view of the scene. Some focused on the fountain, others on the architecture and some on the nearby cafés. Everyone's painting turned out great!
Next, we headed deep into the lavender country to our picturesque b and b, where we spent the rest of the trip. And, of course we completed the day with another delicious meal!