PAGE SAMIS HILL IMPRESSIONIST ARTIST CANADA

IN THE LAND OF CLAUDE MONET
In February 2007, I received the news that my painting Papillon du Nuit had been selected by Art du Pastel en France. Not only was my work to be exhibited at the prestigious Salon International du Pastel in Yvetot, France - I was also invited to participate in outdoor painting workshops for "pastelists" from around the world.
As I pondered the practicalities of this opportunity of a lifetime, I received another offer, this one from Mr. Terry Ludwig of Terry Ludwig Pastels who offered me a selection of his pastels to use during my trip. Soft and very bright, these are my favorite pastels.
After arriving at Charles de Gaulle Airport I took a taxi to Gare St. Lazare Train Station where I traveled north to the village of Yvetot two hours from Paris. I was given a lovely room at the Chateau de Bois Himont, a private estate surrounded by lovely poplar trees swaying in the mist. A chapel near a glistening lake gave it an atmosphere which was truly unique.
Over the next few days I met the artists and sponsors responsible for the magnificent Salon International du Pastel exhibit, and was soon immersed in painting, sharing ideas and dining in style at private homes and the Chateau. In an atmosphere of warmth and cooperation, language differences among the French, Italian, Russian, Polish, Israeli, Scottish and American artists melted away. The individual talents of each participant created a synchronized dance of activity that encompassed efficiency, intelligence and beauty. Serious enthusiasm was combined with an infectious sense of honour that surpassed language.