Revisiting France through Art

I was fortunate to have the opportunity to study abroad in France during my Junior year in college. For one month our group took languages classes in Paris while taking advantage of everything that beautiful city has to offer. We then moved in with host families in Tours, a small city in the Loire Valley. The program was organized by my college and gave me many invaluable experiences. Besides becoming proficient in French I also gained the confidence to travel through the towns of Europe on my own.  

Although living in a foreign country and with a foreign family certainly had its challenges (it should be noted that I was living with twin thirteen-year-old French girls...but that's another story...) I often become nostalgic for that time and the beauty of France. Thankfully I can always dredge up the memories and feelings to continue inspiring new art from that time in my life. 

This is of course Notre Dame de Paris as viewed from the south east and across the river.

I enjoy this perspective of the famous cathedral for the view of flying buttresses and the opportunity to enjoy the contemplation of its architecture in somewhat more solitary state. I've always found the teeming tourists at the entrance overwhelming. 

From this point you can take a moment to stand and appreciate without feeling like you're in somebody's way. 

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I took many day trips to towns within easy train distance of Tours. One of the most memorable was the day I spent in Amboise with friends. When Leonardo da Vinci journeyed to France as a guest of King Francis I, Amboise was his home and final resting place. There are quiet woodland trails around da Vinci's manor home with installations of his various inventions - rather like a playground spread over several acres. Although I certainly visited more elaborate gardens and extensive homes, I enjoyed the simple serenity of this estate. 

Some day I will return to France, but until then I have an extensive collection of moments to recreate and enjoy.