The endless blue skies and dramatic landscapes of Provence have long inspired painters. From the 18th-century landscapes of Avignon native Joseph Vernet to the mythical 19th-century vistas of Vincent Van Gogh and Gauguin, artists were inspired by a region whose quality of light seemed to sharpen colors and shapes. Cézanne spent years of his life in Provence and many artists made the pilgrimage to visit the master. Signac, Braque, Dufy and Derain all painted important works in the region. In the city of Marseille, whose port was a popular subject for each of these painters, has organized an important show of artists working under the sun of Provence. In September, the exhibition moves to Montreal.
Sous le Soleil Exactement - Le Paysage en Provence. Centre de la Vieille Charité. Through August 21. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am-6pm. Closed Monday. 2 rue de la Charité, Marseille. Tel: 04.91.14.58.80.
http://www.mairie-marseille.fr/
