We spent one afternoon learning about dyeing with natural indigo, and the ancient Shibori Japanese technique of creating patterns using various and sundry objects or ways of banding and tying the fabric. Ruth’s passion for working with textiles shone through as she described the process and all the different ways we could try our hand…
Archives for May 2016
Lourmarin market in Provence – a feast for the senses
The Friday market in Lourmarin was the most diverse so far — gorgeous vegetables and lovely fruits, meat and fish, Provençal linens and woven baskets, local artists displaying their pottery, and one of the things I was searching for — lavender honey!
Every brocante treasure has a story – glimpses into lives past
At the brocante in Villeneuve les Avignon, we visit vendor after vendor and find a staggering number of 18th century and early 1900s prayer books, diaries, papers, copper, silver, old jewelry, paintings, pottery, old French linen and cotton knickers — you name it. It definitely is a passion. Every vendor can tell you something about…
La Vie en Soie(e) — an exposition
One of the best parts of the French Muse trip was the inclusion of visiting with artists, designers and exclusive dealers in their homes. It allowed a glimpse not only into the work of local artisans but also their homes to see their collections and decor. A wonderful opportunity to see how fellow brocante lovers…
Wine for breakfast, lunch and dinner
A trip to France without wine is like — well, sorry, there is no such thing. Okay, seriously, we did have coffee for breakfast. But fantastic Provençal rosés and sparkling rosés, lovely whites and aromatic reds. And cheese. Lots of cheese. Food in France is celebrated, and a meal isn’t complete without wine. (Well, except…