IMPRESSIONISM
IN FRANCE

When I first visited Chateau de Puy Vidal, I was overwhelmed by the visual splendor and inspiration that greeted me. From the sweeping views of the gardens that greet you at each turn to the unique clarity of light that fills the courtyard each day- Chateau Puy Vidal is the perfect backdrop to immerse ourselves in the authentic Impressionistic way of painting.

And since having led my first painting workshop there in 2024, I have come to regard it as the ideal place to retreat, connect and create. In fact, at the end of my first workshop there, I was filled with memories of my early days teaching at an art camp in the US for young artists. Here at Puy Vidal I have found the ultimate art camp for sophisticated adults. The creative team and family, the dedication of every resource and element for the inspiration and benefit of the creative process, and the peace and quiet offered by the beautiful countryside surrounding the Chateau all make for the perfect artistic retreat. 

Following in the footsteps of some of the most important and influential artists in the history of art, we will explore the exact techniques and practices used by some of the great French Impressionists- Monet, Sisley, Pissarro, Cezanne, and Renoir surrounded by the Chateau as our daily inspiration.
 
My aim for this week of painting is to give you an experience as close as possible to the authentic approach of painting Impressionist paintings. From learning about how the Impressionists adopted unique color harmonies to how they used specific brush techniques or the exact ways, they began and built up their painting, plus the strategies they used to capture the stunning effects of light. The week is one of creative discovery, learning, and excellent painting. Time will also be spent sharing how the Impressionists changed the course of art, some of my favorite personal stories about each artist, and the important scientific development of colour pigment and industry that helped them with their unique creative mission.
 
During the week, we will spend our days painting both outside, en plein air, in the diffused French light, and in the well-equipped Chateau studio, capturing the essence of springtime in France. The evenings will be spent conversing and sharing our love and passion for painting, all whilst enjoying delicious chef-cooked French meals by candlelight. 
It is a feast for all the parts of the creative soul.
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With me painting alongside you, demonstrating the Impressionistic principles and techniques whilst supporting you with each of your paintings, you can expect to produce between 4 – 6 original oil paintings of varying subject matters, including roses, irises, and other early summer flowers, far-reaching views over the gardens or the architecture of the Chateau itself.
 
This workshop is suitable for all painters of all abilities who have any interest or curiosity in painting and who wish to study the Impressionistic approach. I simply cannot wait to return to Puy Vidal for this indulgent week of painting.
 
I very much look forward to painting with you very soon,
  
Peter Keegan