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

 

 

Joyeuses Fêtes de Paris

IMG_0397IMG_0392 {Christmas at the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte located in Maincy, outside of Paris in the Seine-et-Marne département of France}

Our reporters are off to Europe for the holidays and the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte in Maincy, located in southeastern Paris was first on their list of sites. And, what better way to start celebrating than at this French baroque château decorated in a most distinctively Gallic style.

IMG_0399This residence marked the beginning of the Louis XIV influence by combining the architecture of Louis Le Vau, interior design of painter-decorator Charles Le Brun and landscape designs by Andre Le Notre to create an extremely royal estate. Can anyone say Hugo Drax from the James Bond’s thriller Moonraker…”Cute isn’t it”!!!!

image4 image5{Notre-Dame de Paris in the fourth arrondissement}

Next on their list of sites was the Boulevard Saint-Germain with a view of Notre Dame Cathedral on the eastern half of the Île de la Cité. A fine example of French Gothic design with the western facade illuminated by joyous decorations and lights.

Happy holidays!!!
K