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Beyond the brushstrokes
With its magnificent natural setting and extraordinary light all year round, the beauty of Provence has been captured on canvas by the most famous painters of the art world, such as Van Gogh, Cézanne, Picasso and many others. Today, you can visit many places associated with these artists and uncover the stories behind their genius.
In the footsteps of Cézanne in Aix-en-Provence
Born in Aix-en-Provence, Cézanne returned to his home town after several years in Paris. Provence would remain a great source of inspiration until the end of his life, particularly the Sainte-Victoire mountain just outside Aix itself, which he painted many times in different lights. There are three must-see places if you want to follow the story of the painter’s life and works.
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Cézanne’s Studio
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The Jas de Bouffan mansion
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The Bibémus Quarries
Find out more here: www.cezanne-en-provence.com
Follow Van Gogh's footsteps…
Van Gogh spent two years in Provence between 1888 and 1890. Despite his fragile mental state, it was an extremely prolific period for the painter as he discovered the region's incredible light. He spent the first year in Arles alongside Paul Gauguin, until the famous ear episode led him to the asylum in Saint-Rémy de Provence the following year. To discover the story of the painter in Provence, we suggest visiting:
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Arles: The town is brimming with places that the painter immortalised on canvas, such as the famous "Café de la nuit", all marked on a trail (a map is available from the Tourist Office in Arles).
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The Van Gogh Foundation : International centre for artistic exchange with temporary exhibitions.
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Saint Paul de Mausolée : Parts of the walls and the garden of this psychiatric hospital have been transformed into a space dedicated to Van Gogh, where you can learn about his daily life during his year in the asylum.
The Carrière de Lumières, Baux de Provence
Immerse yourself in an extraordinary light and sound show in the old limestone quarry at Les Baux de Provence, offering a moment of magic accompanied by music with a different theme each year, revealing the works of a painting master.
Find out more here: www.carrieres-lumieres.com