Where can you go in the world that feels like you are abroad but in fact you are still in England? Jersey is a place I have never been to and always wondered….. I have just spent 5 amazing days on this tiny island just 9 miles wide by 4 miles high and it really didn’t disappoint.
In fact it feels like you are in France but you have none of the bureaucracy to get there. No passport required! The old buildings are stunning built in the French style of architecture with French names on roads and buildings, there are lots of wide sandy deserted beaches adorned with palm trees and the sea is turquoise in the sun. An artist’s paradise, inspiration around all corners.
We stayed in St Aubin a very pretty seaside town with stunning Georgian buildings and great restaurants. Panaroma Guest House is a hidden gem overlooking the bay with the most delicious breakfasts. We also stayed at Longueville Manor, a beautiful countryside hotel. The locals are really friendly and we joined in a local Jubilee street party on High Street in St Aubin.
My background to painting outside stems from early childhood. No matter what the weather - I'll always try and paint outside of my studio to capture the subject matter be it animals, landscapes or as is often the case - a combination!
Beautiful autumn colouring this year inspired me to capture the cherry trees on the stray in Harrogate - slightly windy conditions made the outdoors challenging but well worth the effort - !
Had a fabulous time at the gardens of Monet in the tranquil village of Giverny. Made all the more exciting when a massive storm hit the village the evening we arrived - ended up eating my Sea Bass in a plate full of rainwater..... as the restaurant got deluged!
Anita Bowerman
Author
Artist