Nouveau Impressionnisme

IMG_0479 IMG_0473The Impressionist style of art had a definite emphasis on the accurate depiction of light in its changing qualities throughout the course of the day. Using ordinary subject matter and throwing in the elements of expressionism, perceptions with visual angles were the distinctive qualities of this artistic movement.

IMG_0478 IMG_0475 IMG_0474Our reporters took these streets shots experiencing the Bohemian lifestyle such as the artist, musicians and literary adventurers of nineteenth century Paris. And, what an elegant way to start the year by perusing the hilly streets of Montmartre and viewing this historic district established by the “City of Paris”.

IMG_0476Primarily known for the white domed Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur and as a location where most notable artist lived from Renoir, Van Gogh, Matisse and Degas. Poet Langston Hughes worked in this picturesque town and drew inspiration from the surrounding area along with performer Josephine Baker, architect-artist Le Corbusier and artist Raoul Dufy who frequented the carefree bohemian cafes, streets and libraries at the turn of the 20th century.

Stay stylishly de Bohème,
K

 

 

December Solstice

104_0478{The InterContinental Le Grand Hôtel decorated for the holidays}

In the northern hemisphere the December solstice marks the first day of winter. And though I am not in the land of the midnight sun, but actually in the mid-Atlantic we have been experiencing shorter daylight hours and extremely long evening hours, with that said I am beginning to understand why we celebrate with so many lights at this time of year.

104_0480 104_0496{L’oiseau de feu [Firebird] by Niki de Saint Phalle that was at the Charles Pompidou Center and la tour Eiffel with the evening beacon}

Perusing through my photographs the other day I noticed that I have been in the “City of Light”, better known as Paris several times during the month of December and most definitely on the 21st of the month. Whether its the decorations in the lobby of the InterContinental Hôtel or the artwork of Niki de Saint Phalle this all adds up to warmth no matter what time of the day or where you are standing in the city. Going through my earliest photographs of this wondrous town I though I would share a few pictures of how I like to celebrate the beginning of winter… well in Paris of course!!

Happy Solstice!!!
K