Viewer No. 1/ ©2010 Robert D. Hale.

Aix- en-Provence, France

It has been a particularly cold winter here in the south of France. Seems global warming is no respecter of traditions, especially those of cool temperatures with plenty of sunshine, which is our usual weather pattern for the winter months. As with most of Nature here in Provence, the artists have also been unenthusiastic about venturing out, preferring instead in remain indoors, warm and cozy, contemplating future projects. Still a few like Danielle Jacqui continue to work nonstop.

Danielle Jacqui at Work/ ©2010 Robert D. Hale.

Danielle is most often considered L’Artiste Singulier, corresponding to that category of Outsider art known as New Invention, a term coined by Jean Dubuffet for art that fell between L’Brut; art created by psychiatric patients, and contemporary art. Now try and figure what that really means. Regardless Danielle’s work falls way outside all the boxes that have been set up to designate who does what. She has been working for several years on a project to cover the facade of a train station in the town of Aubagne where she has her studio, and similar style to that of her home. It is always a pleasure, as well as an honor for me to visit with her and photograph her, and to marvel at the progress she continues to make with this amazing project. She’s a feisty woman and extremely dedicated to her vision.

Gaëlle Villedary and Admirer/ ©2010 Robert D. Hale.

A week ago there was an “opening” (called “Vernissage” in French) for a young artist from Marseilles by the name of Gaëlle Villedary. This exhibition was held at the gallery I have had the good fortune to have a solo show in during the past summer.  Called Le Galerie Susini, and located in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, it is operated by the brothers Monges; Philippe and Patric. This is one of a small group of galleries that are funded by the City’s Art Commission. The artist need only provide the artwork ready to display, and the gallery does the rest. If the policy is the same when I showed during the Summer, there is no percentage is taken by the gallery. You may contact the gallery, but as they do not speak much English, you may want someone to speak for you, or translate an email into French. This may be a good opportunity to learn more about how the system works here, and perhaps receive some valuable input on other opportunities

Also keep in mind that Marseilles will become the European City of Culture in 2013, as such will be looking for work to fill its many venues. Now would be a good time to make inquiries to the various Arts Commissions in the city to find out how, and if you can participate. I have heard that by late Spring everything will be pretty much sewn up. If I receive any more information, I’ll send it out.

Just what are they interested in here? More than likely what we’re all interested in; excellent technique, works that challenge our assumptions and stimulates dialogue. With that in mind, cast off your winter clothing, burrow out from your caves and make art.

Salut,

Robert Hale/Photographer