Capturing the Light: The Rise of Modernist Painting in Provence

by Marcus G. Banuelos

Beautiful weather, amazing architecture, a new culture, and new approaches to art making are what I had in store for the next three weeks in Provence. 

Very early on, my roommate and I connected: we both had a passion for learning new. We wasted little to no time producing work. I learned to use gouache – a new medium I had no experience with before Summer Arts. It was quite challenging, but the change was good. My time in the studio was eye-opening. I learned new techniques and painting methods based on the modern artists from our lectures.

One afternoon, my roommate and I decided to hike up the inclined streets of St. Tropez to paint at a castle we saw when we arrived. As soon as we reached the top of the hill, we quickly changed our minds and decided to paint the gorgeous landscape instead. one of these landscapes of mine is now being shown at the Schomburg Gallery at Bergamot Station in Santa Monica.
During a day off from coursework, my classmates and I decided to hike to a local castle to paint. When we finally arrived we, found a nice, shady spot outside of a small café and began to paint. Many other students were also there. 

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for granting me the Dean’s Student Opportunity Fund. Because of your support, one of my biggest dreams came true.