Mistral

Our first two weeks have been bathed in bright sunshine which has been great for painting en plein air.  The strong sun has brought out a profusion of wild flowers, especially poppies. They are really astounding in the intensity and vibrancy of their colour. We stopped on the way back from Goult to admire this incredible field near Roussillon.

The tell-tale signs of the Mistral can be seen in the dramatic sky.  Though it is difficult to paint in, and sends us chasing around looking for sheltered painting spots, there are compensations.  Known in Provencal as 'mange-fange' or mud eater, the drying affect of the wind is said to bring good health.  It clears the air of any pollution and dust particles.  It is of course the reason so many have come to paint here; in pursuit of that very particular Provencal light.