Saturday, April 24, 2010

Abbey of New Clairvaux


I have never painted a successful vineyard painting. I feel lost among the vines and unsure about how to work a composition to make it interesting. But, after touring the New Clairvaux Abbey and Vineyard, after touching the limestone blocks and admiring the Sacred Stones Gothic structure that is being reconstructed from materials that once made up a 12th century church, after listening to the monks chanting, ... I walked among the orchards and vineyards and thought I might be able to paint something next time.

For now, I am content, oddly content after this quiet day. And I wonder how it is that this 600 acre California monastery feels like France.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

What an inspiring place. Can't wait to see your interpretation! I have a feeling it will be gorgeous!