PROVENCE SPRING HAPPENINGS

     In this blog I have headed south to Provence in search of notable decorative arts events.  You can  choose to go or alternatively just daydream about an exciting vacation in this most magical area.  Fortunately, Provence is choc full of unique and artistic events this spring.

     In Aix:  "Le Grand Atelier du Midi:  Cezanne to Matisse"

     Musee Granet, Aix-en-Provence.  June 13 through October 13.
     Part of the 2013 Marseille Provence 2013 Capital of Culture is this art exhibit filled with priceless works
from the great masters.  Opening in late spring, it has pieces by Monet, Picasso, Renoir, Dali, Braque, Signac, Soutine, Vallotton, Dufy, Camoin, Derain, Gaugin, Man Ray, and Modigliani.  Over 200 original works inspired by the Mediterranean region will be shown.

     To get tickets online: www.mp2013.fr
     The works on display date from 1880 to the 1960's.

     In Marseille:  "From Van Gogh to Bonnard"

     Musee des Beaux Arts-Palais Longchamps, Rue de la Charite 13002, Marseille.  From June 3 through October13.

     This exhibition, also called "The Reign of Colour", is being held simultaneously with the show in Aix. The art focuses on imaginary realms, the hedonistic pursuit of a dream, the arbitrariness of color, and the quest for a golden age.  On display will be 120 works from the nineteenth and twentieth centuries painted by the well-known artists of that period, including the Fauves, Van Gogh, and Bonnard.

From the "Reign of Colour" Exhibit

   

      In Arles:  "Rodin--The Shadow of Antiquity"

     Musee Departemental Arles Antiques, Avenue  1re-Division-France-Libre 13200, Arles.  From April 6 through September 1st.

     This most recently opened exhibition will have on display eight major sculptures by the French artist Auguste Rodin (1840-1917).  These works will be mixed with over 250 antique pieces from both Rodin's own extensive personal collection as well those by other Greek sculptors on loan from major European museums.  

      The world of antiquity and classical Greco-Roman art was a major artistic inspiration for Rodin.    Rodin is perhaps most well known for his sculpture entitled "The Thinker", as well as "The Burghers of Calais".  

"The Thinker"-Wikipedia Commons

                                                                                    

     In Avignon:  Alterosa, Festival of Roses

     Palais des Papes, Avignon
     Alterosa is an annual springtime event in Avignon.  Rose growers from France and abroad bring their best and most exciting new breeds for the enjoyment of rose fans and gardeners.  Over 30 new species are unveiled each year.

     The location of the event itself is breathtaking.  The Palais des Papes served as the papal residence in the 14th century.  Architecturally, it is one of the most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe.

     Various workshops and conferences are available for attendees.  Hydrangeas are also highlighted this year.  Those attending the Alterosa are invited to vote for their favorite rose to win the honored "Prix de Publique Alterosa" prize.

                                                                

                                                                                

Entrance to the Palais des Papes  Wikipedia Commons
                                                                                                                                                                                                                 

                                                                   
     For more information, visit their website at www.alterosa.com.

     Flea Markets

     Spring is a great time to hunt for antiques and one-of-a-kind objects in Provence.  You might want to check these out:

     In  Aix:  Vide Grenier/Flea Market
     Pont de L'Arc, Aix-en-Provence.  every Sunday starting at 6:00 a.m.

     In Arles:  Place des Lices
     A large brocante (flea market) is held here on the first Wednesday of every month.

     In Avignon:  Halles d'Avignon
     There is a flea market every Tuesday and Thursday, from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.  Phone 06-08-94-71-70 for more information.

     Enjoy your trip!