Art Girl's Guide To Paris

Happy Holidays!

2011-12-25T11:12:00.001-05:00

My winter scene canvas found in the big antique market north of Paris!

I Would Love To Christmas Shop Here This Weekend!

2011-12-08T16:42:00.002-05:00

My photo summing up Christmas at the big antique market north of Paris.

(2010)

My Vision of Notre Dame at Christmas

2011-12-03T13:56:00.000-05:00

My picture of Notre Dame looked pretty good...but it was such a grey day.

My coloured in version is much more dramtic.

Karl Lagerfeld Dolls in the Printemps Windows

2011-11-24T09:35:00.000-05:00

Printemps Department Store Christmas Windows

2011-11-23T17:04:00.000-05:00

I am going to see these in person one day!

They are over the top and spectacular!
Printemps Department Store has a short video you can watch online too!

Happy To Be Part of The Trip!

2011-10-09T09:49:00.001-04:00

I have a friend in Paris this week.

She popped over to get a copy of my book: Art Girl's Guide to Paris before she left, so I feel like I am along for the trip.

I hope she is enjoying a beautiful fall day in Paris!
I took this photo in April 2011.

Any Old Wall In Paris

2011-09-18T21:57:00.000-04:00

I only take pictures of bricks when I walk in Paris.

Hand Written Note

2011-09-16T21:43:00.000-04:00

"Young Polish woman serious and responsible with reference, seeks hours cleaning and ironing."

The note with the beautiful handwriting. It looks like it is growing through the tree.

Paris, 2011

Sundays At The Antique Market

2011-09-10T22:07:00.000-04:00

Soon, the antique market north of Paris will be open for yet another typical Sunday.

I wonder if these chairs sold?

I have a spot in my house where these would be perfect!

Antique Market Regrets

2011-08-15T23:12:00.001-04:00

I loved this box.

I loved the leather bag.

One day I will have a leopard blanket.

The Sign That Says It All

2011-08-07T09:15:00.000-04:00

I took this sign picture on a hill top village in Provence in April.

I can't imagine a better way of explaining/showcasing that an artist works here.

Antique Market Regrets

2011-07-31T13:53:00.001-04:00

Every Sunday my mind wanders to the Antique Markets in Paris. There are so many things I regret not buying. I love this lady. I could have made her a new dress.

This tin box should be sitting in my studio. Alas, I left it in France with the vendor too bored to give me a price for it.

This puppy works for a vintage post card vendor. I bought a dozen post cards. I really should have spend more time photographing the dog.

I can not believe I didn't even try to buy this mannequin head. I was so mesmerized by the photo opportunity that I didn't ask.

These two were a little chipped. But I could have repaired them and spent a lot of time photographing them in unique places. Whaaa.

My advice to you. If you see it and like it, buy it. If not, you'll be like me sitting at your computer on a Sunday sighing over the items you let get away.

The Mannequin

2011-07-26T22:15:00.000-04:00

I see the most interesting and artistic mannequins in Paris.

If I lived there there would be at least a dozen occupying space in what would have to be a very small living room. For this mannequin...I would give up my couch.

The Sneaky Photograph

2011-07-09T07:58:00.002-04:00

The vendor of this booth at the big antique market does not like people taking pictures. But how can anyone resist this artful display? I even bought some wallpaper! This picture was taken with my camera just peaking out of my purse. I didn't have a chance to focus or see if I was centered.
It worked out though!

Favorite Doors

2011-07-04T08:44:00.000-04:00

The Monkey Named Napoleon

2011-07-02T13:47:00.000-04:00

I think we all know that "you never know what you will see at an antique market"...especially a legendary one like the one north of Paris. I take so many pictures that it takes months to review them when I get home. This picture I took from a distance. I had a feeling that the monkey was real and I hate to see stuffed animals. It just creeps me out. But I stared and stared and finally had to walk over.

With my sneaky camera in hand I pressed my finger once to capture the inside of the glass frame. This monkey was named Napoleon...and apparently, he was a painter. I have no idea what to say about this. I only noticed the brushes when I reviewed the photo.

I do know one thing. This glass aquarium would never come home with me.

Vintage Flowers

2011-06-23T07:46:00.001-04:00

This is one of my favorite new stalls at the big antique market north of Paris. Finally a vendor that knows you need to just see everything and take a picture or two!

These vintage floral arrangements are gorgeous!

In the Paris Shop Window

2011-06-15T23:08:00.000-04:00

Sigh. How I love this painting.

Wish I could draw or paint like this.

The Magic Tiles

2011-06-12T23:18:00.000-04:00

These tiny tiles are on a wall in the fourth district of Paris. I've probably walked by them a half dozen times. This time I really noticed them and with my zoom lens activated I managed to take one great photo. ART.

Love them.

Later that afternoon though I walked by them again and they looked completely different. The light totally picked up on the mirror inlay to highlight the word. There was no way for me to figure out where these tiles were from. Next time, I am tracking this information down!

l'Objet qui Parle

2011-06-11T09:13:00.001-04:00

I love everything about this store front in Paris. From the name "objects that speak/talk," the font used for the sign, the objects parked outside and finally the warm lamp light.
I could move right in.

His trunk is a little too long.

I hope this odd elephant found a home.

Avoid The Purple Ones

2011-06-09T19:30:00.000-04:00

What is a trip to Paris without a few macaroons with coffee?

There is a fabulous upscale cafeteria at the Louvre Museum that looks like a restaurant. With one of our lunches we got a complimentary cup of macaroons. The brown one was clearly a coffee flavour. The light green was pistachio flavoured. The purple one had us stumped.

Because it tasted awful.

But we nibbled away trying to figure out what it was.

Lavender.

Great in soap and potpourri...not so great as a macaroon.

We Stop For Horses

2011-06-02T10:30:00.000-04:00

Could there be a friendlier welcoming committee?

As we drove through the winding roads south east of Paris we saw one fabulous vista after another.

The roads are not very wide. You have to pay attention because at any minute a big truck might be heading towards you on the opposite side of the road. It never felt like there was enough room for two of us on the same road.

But when I saw these horses at a distance I just had to yell "stop." My friend Melanie, who is an excellent driver, pulled off on the side of the road immediately! A risky proposition given that cars sneak up behind you when you least expect them.

The horses galloped right over. Perhaps they were used to visitors. The white horse was magical.

I was sad we did not have apples to offer. Next time we drive through the south of France I plan to pack fruit!

Sweetness

2011-05-31T23:42:00.000-04:00

I would pay a lot of money right now for just one item in this window.

Sigh. There are no snacks in my house.

Printemps Amazing Store Window

2011-05-19T12:33:00.002-04:00

Since I can't see these in person,

I am very happy to see that Printemps has a small slide show online!

Friends in Paris

2011-05-15T08:58:00.000-04:00

2011

One of these trips I am going to walk into this teeny tiny store and ask the shop keeper if she will sell me this mannequin head. I just love her! I do like to see her merchandised and I noticed that this time she was wearing a small fascinator...perhaps in preparation for the royal wedding.

2010

Is The Ice Cream Better in France?

2011-05-12T15:47:00.000-04:00

Or does it taste better because I love what I see on a walk?

Sundays At The Antique Market

2011-05-08T09:48:00.000-04:00

So many of the vendors at the big market north of the city of Paris have fabulous floral arrangements.

It makes ever table look spectacular. For photographers, these are perfect scenes for capturing the feeling of a busy marketplace. No merchandising required.

A Little Window Candy

2011-05-04T18:56:00.000-04:00

The art of the arrangement!

I need these red bottle vases!

(photographed in Paris last month)

The Art of The Detail - Madame Gres Exhibition In Paris

2011-05-02T07:45:00.000-04:00

I have bigger images of this on my regular blog today.

Painter Marie Laurencin

2011-04-29T22:28:00.001-04:00

Marie Laurencin (October 31, 1885–June 8, 1956) was a French painter and print maker.

Portrait de Mademoiselle Chanel 1923.

The more I go to Paris the less I seem to know.

This year we decided to visit The Musée de l'Orangerie in the hopes that we would finally see the big Monet's Water Lillies paintings. Little did I know that there would be a whole basement of amazing impressionist art! I am so glad we did because I was exposed to this amazing painting. I took the picture myself. Something I may not be able to do in the future if all the Museums ban cameras.

All Time Greatest Paris Sign - The Zipper Sign

2011-04-28T14:39:00.000-04:00

The alterations shop in the 4rth.

What can I say. This is the most fabulous sign ever created!

The Scarf and the Bauble

2011-04-26T08:34:00.000-04:00

Some of our fabulous finds during the trip to Paris this month!

Pauline Came Back!

2011-04-24T07:43:00.001-04:00

In my book "Art Girl's Guide to Paris" I have a section dedicated to the two antique markets I always go to. I have noticed that many of the vendors are there year after year. This lovely lady was not at the market for a few years. Pauline popped up in a little empty space at the market a few years ago and everyone with me bought a painting or two from her. Each year I wondered if I would see her again.

Last Saturday as we were starting to walk back to the Metro she appeared. Wearing what I think is her lucky blue suit. I think the other vendors just let her set up when there is an open space. How could you say no? She is cute as a button!

She uses oil on a thin wood board for her paintings. I would love to have a long chat with her. Sadly, I didn't bring a copy of my book to the market. I think she would have been very surprised to see a picture of herself in it.

A Model of Restraint

2011-04-23T10:37:00.001-04:00

This beautiful pile represents my entire ribbon purchase during the April 2011 trip to the Paris fabric market. I really held back! Truth be told. I did not use a piece from everything I bought last year....and usually that means I can't buy any more. But these were so pretty. I could not leave empty handed.

I love how the shop girls roll the ribbon. This is exactly how I received my ribbons after they were cut and when I pulled them out onto my table, they were still so nicely rolled.

My Paris Dog - Still On Duty

2011-04-22T07:43:00.000-04:00

Every year at the antique market I hold my breath. There is an area I look through hoping to see my favorite Paris Golden retriever. He works here and until I see him I am anxious. Last year he looked very old. But he was still on duty this spring! How happy I was to see him again. It has been seven years since we first met. How amazing it is to see him year after year. That's what makes Paris such a special place for me.

I really hope to see him here always.

My Heart Belongs To Paris

2011-04-21T07:59:00.000-04:00

Even the cactus are in love when it is spring time in Paris.

I have never seen a heart shaped cactus before.

I would love to have one of these little pots.

I took these pictures of the cactus in a window in the 4rth.

The Poppies In Paris

2011-04-20T09:12:00.000-04:00

I did a pretty post on my other blog today about the poppies I saw in Paris.

Shakespeare in The Spring

2011-04-19T10:01:00.000-04:00

The Shakespeare and Company book store looks so pretty in the spring time. The pink blossoms on the tree out front creates the perfect framing to say it is spring.

This is the pretty sign in the door which reflects the tree and the amazing buildings across the river.

How to Merchandise On a Cliff Top

2011-04-18T10:45:00.000-04:00

This store has made excellent use of the space leading to it's doorway. Located in a beautiful mountain top village in Provence, it was a fabulous and unexpected sight.

I thought each mannequin was great.

I have no idea where the flowers came from. Clearly this shop owner had a sense of the dramatic.

The clothes and the flowers were just soaking in the sunshine.

I wonder if the "heads" of these mannequins change by the season.

Medieval meets modern.

The Worlds Cutest Postcard Salesman

2011-04-17T06:39:00.002-04:00

We had a long full day in Paris on Saturday! But, it is time to pack up and head home so there will be a small break in the posting for a day or two. This little fellow ran this vendors postcard table. I had not planned to buy any antique postcards on this trip...but who could resist this sales guy!

Sharing Provence With You

2011-04-16T17:18:00.002-04:00

Everything I hoped I would see in Provence came true. It really is a beautiful part of the world.

You can't make up scenes like this.

We visited the Pope's Palace. This medieval building is amazing to walk through.

Avignon is a beautiful city.

They have kept up the ancient architecture and added in the new.

Classic Provence imagery is a feast for the eyes

I had no idea that the cicada bug represented french folklore. You see the bug shape everywhere.

We drove through the mini alps and visited several ancient sites. The highlight was Les Baux village on a rocky peak.

I love when homes and stores work around ancient architectural structures..

Things to tempt your wallet are everywhere.

Of all the things we saw and did seeing this 1000 year old olive grove was my favorite.

There are three of them here. They stand in front of a Roman Aqueduct built by the Romans in 1st Century AD.

I"ll share more about this trip soon.

Provence

2011-04-15T18:31:00.000-04:00

Just spent the whole day in Provence. Oh my. It was so great!

I am too tired to post tonight.

I'll be back in a day!

A Day In Montmartre With Me

2011-04-14T16:51:00.004-04:00

This was the list of things that had to be done today.

1. Take Metro to Montmartre…but get off at a different stop to explore a new section.

2. Take photos of the tulips I saw last year.

3. Take the cable tram up the steep hill to Sacre Coeur (avoid stairs at all costs).

4. Light candles in church. Think good thoughts.

5. Visit Montmartre artist area. Get new silhouette cut.

6. Eat crepes.

7. Take tram back down to fabric district. Shop for ribbon and fabrics. Try not to fill bags.

8. Coffee break in art gallery. (use their bathrooms)

9. Buy small piece of art in Carre D’Artistes, the best store ever to represent the work of up and coming artists.

10. Find the bakery that won the award for the best baguette in Paris: Le Grenier a Pain in Montmartre.

11. Buy baguette after stopping in dozens of boutiques along the way.

Tulips growing wild on the hill.

Sacre Coeur

Good thoughts.

New silhouette artist. I'll post my new silhouette soon. He was very kind and made me look young.

Prepare for a polka dot invasion.

Art gallery tables make the coffee look even better.

Fab stores.

Love these store fronts.

My baguette for dinner.

Montmartre 2011.

The Cat in Renoir's Village

2011-04-14T05:10:00.001-04:00

Renoir's village was exactly what we hoped for. It was great to leave Paris to see a little bit of "old time" France. Of course, real people live here and we did actually meet a few who were happy to hear we were from Canada. We noticed that a lot of the building were undergoing a transformation. I think they are hoping that they will pick up a little more tourism. And they deserve it too!

Here is a classic French scene. It was such a stereo type I had to laugh.

Don't you imagine that all French people have a stunning cottage in the country? This cat is living like royalty!

"Bonjour" I called!

The cat gave me the "not another tourist with a camera" face.

Looking For Auguste Renoir

2011-04-13T18:40:00.002-04:00

It is because of Renoir that we rented a car and decided to drive 2 1/2 hours south west of Paris to see his village and to pay our respects at his grave site.

It took almost as long to get out of Paris as it did to drive along these beautiful country roads to get to our destination.

Having our own car meant we could stop anywhere to take pictures. This is indeed a luxury.

The village we were seeking was ESSOYES. There isn't a train or bus that goes there from Paris. I think that will change now. I bet many people will be driving along these roads to see the new Renoir Cultural Centre.

And this is Champagne country too! There are many stops you could make along the way.

We chose to stop and make new friends. This white horse really wanted to come with us on our adventure.

Renoir's grave is beautiful. It is well cared for and the cemetery is immaculate.

We had the entire exhibit to ourselves! This is the new cultural centre and 10 minutes away you can visit his studio and garden.

I just had to add myself to this 3d collage.

It really is worth the drive to Essoyes! I love to see the same sites artists immortalize in their paintings. The village was lovely and perhaps tomorrow I'll post pictures of our amazing luncheon!

Fondue In The Latin Quarter

2011-04-13T08:15:00.022-04:00

There are so many restaurants to choose from in the Latin Quarter.

We decided we wanted fondue and stopped at the first restaurant that listed it on their outdoor menu.

First the burners and tools arrived.

Then the breads and meats for the raclette.

It was all over in 30 minutes. We were concentrating so hard on making sure our meat was cooking that we barely said a word during dinner. Not a bit of cheese was left.

The Latin quarter. Not very busy at 6pm.....be an early bird if you can!

Pretty Colours and Things From Our Walkabout Today

2011-04-12T16:37:00.002-04:00

We covered a lot of ground today. From the 4rth district to the 2nd and then back to the 3rd. We saw so many pretty things. Anything embroidered is special in my book.

I also love brightly painted things.

Here is a craft I am thinking about bringing home. Styrofoam garden gnomes. All you need to do is spray paint them. Imagine them with glitter!!!

The macroons are multi-coloured. Avoid purple.....we thought it might be blueberry. It was lavender and tasted like a nice soap.

Ah Mona. Against black or the French Blue Red and White. She always looks great.

Polka dots are everywhere! Prepare for a North American invasion next year.

Finally, the last thing we saw before heading into the apartment. The tower looks majestic and the red awning is lovely.

Manet, The Man Who Invented Modern Art

2011-04-12T15:37:00.002-04:00

This might have been the only picture I had to share with you about my trip to see the new Manet exhibit at Musee dOrsay today.

I know I can always clip something from a website. However, I really LOVE to take my own pictures in art galleries. In fact, I live to take my own pictures. Respectfully of course. No Flash. I never hog the room and I try not to set off any alarm bells. So you can imagine my surprise to see the no camera posters all over the Musee today. I assumed they meant no flash photography.....but no.

It is a no pictures allowed at all policy.

I guess they expect us all to line up in the gift store to buy the postcards as mementos.

Just one year ago I took this picture of one of the Manet paintings now in the exhibition. I took a lot of pictures that day and over the last five years. I'll have to really treasure them now and hope all the other art galleries don't adopt similar policies.

Joan of Arc.

We passed her on the way to the Musee today. Proud and strong in the blue sky.

Bet she would have challenged the Musee anti picture policy.

Paris From The 5th to the 4rth District

2011-04-11T17:34:00.001-04:00

Another amazing blue sky day here in Paris.

Notre Dame was sparkling.

The trees around the Shakespeare and company bookstore were blooming.

My favorite building in Paris. Wisteria everywhere!

Last year at this exact same time this is what the building looked like (sorry Nancy.)

The floral arrangements were lovely.

There are always new designs in the pastry world.

And yes, there was a lot of joy today.

I spotted this purple store front from a great distance.

Full of Frida style merchandise!

My favorite tea house has all the new spring releases available to buy! I love the canisters!

One last stop at my favorite bead shop before the long walk home. Bags were heavy. Wallets were light.

Flowers At The Market

2011-04-11T03:37:00.000-04:00

I could print a book just featuring the flower arrangements I see in Paris.

A Perfect Day for Antiquing - Day Two In Paris

2011-04-10T15:33:00.001-04:00

It is warm and sunny in Paris. It is so nice to leave the coat and scarf at home and wander down all the many aisles at the big antique market north of Paris.

The wisteria trees are in full bloom. Timing is everything. Last year I wanted to show these to my friend Nancy and there was not one purple petal to be found.

This angel was basking in the sunshine.

I think the bunnies were plotting out their Easter routes.

Oh the heads. I have so many new pictures to work with!

Yes, I think this chair would look great in my studio.

(Hope Claudine doesn't see this salute to death.)

The blue vase my friend wanted......it was very expensive. We found a better one later in the day and the dealer practically gifted her with it. Yeah for patience and shopping savvy!

Everywhere you look there are things to buy, touch or photograph.

The merchandising is natural but oh so effective.

The picture I was not supposed to take. VOILA! I did buy velvet wallpaper from this vendor.

We need sun bonnets. Feeling left out without them.

April In Paris - I'm Back!

2011-04-09T15:06:00.028-04:00

Surprise Surprise! I am blogging from Paris! This fabulous loaf was sitting on the table waiting for our arrival. I am traveling with my best friend!

We landed at 10am and by noon we were right here! Our apartment is right around the corner from the Eiffel Tower. It is very warm here. I can't believe we got a blue sky day so soon. Parisians are sunning themselves everywhere and most people are wearing t-shirts and other summer outfits.

I hate to lose a day in Paris to jet lag. So even though we slept very little, we set out to make the most of our day. We walked many kilometres from the tower area to the Jardin des Tuileries.

We decided to make today our day to see the famous Monet Les Nympheas at the Musee de l'Orangerie. I had no idea how big these paintings were and that there are eight of them in two separate oval shaped rooms. It is overwhelming to walk in and see them for the first time.

If you love Monet, you must see them. I was able to take quite a few photos. Monet's paint strokes look like nothing close up...but when you stand back and see the flowers you can appreciate his genius.

I also did not know that the l'Orangerie has a major art collection featuring the works of Manet, Modigliani, Renoir and their contemporaries. Where have I been? I should have seen this collection a long time ago!

My first meal in Paris. At Angelina's. No, I did not have the hot chocolate...it is too hot!

But I did have a cafe au lait and this fabulous dessert.

Easter chocolate is everywhere! How happy I am to be here!

I'll be posting from Paris on this blog until the 17th!

Front Door Sign

2011-04-08T14:04:00.001-04:00

I wonder what this store would write on this blackboard today.

I know what I would write.

Come back Sunday for a surprise!

Paris Shell Ladies

2011-04-06T14:35:00.002-04:00

Leave it to the shell crafters of Paris to create such well dressed dolls.

Pinks of Paris

2011-04-04T22:50:00.000-04:00

Hot pink blossoms against a blue Parisian sky.

Shades of pink from a pretty store front.

Hot pink seating in an art gallery restaurant.

Spring Is In The Air!

2011-03-27T09:26:00.001-04:00

I can just imagine all the amazing windows that are being designed in Paris right now. This one is two years old. I thought this lace purse was way over the top. Given the opportunity, I would have happily bought some of the individual lace by the yard though. The real reason I loved the window was the abundance of flowers on the floor. Talk about walking through a bed of roses.

Monet's Yellow Dining Room

2011-03-25T08:39:00.001-04:00

If you go to Paris and want a have a nice day trip outside of the city I always recommend going to see the small village where Monet's house and garden are open to the public. I never tire of the flowers and always take a walk through his home. This room is a favorite. There are usually so many people about that it is hard to get the room to yourself to take a photo. On this day I got lucky and managed to snap one picture.

When security wasn't looking, I also snapped a picture of my traveling doll Marie on the side board.

Paris Paintings

2011-03-19T10:18:00.000-04:00

I spotted these two gorgeous paintings through a window of one of the store fronts in the big Paris antique market. I am not certain if they are new or "antique." I do think they are stunning though.

I would have to have both. I would never be able to choose. The dresses are such a fabulous example of different fabrics

What's For Breakfast?

2011-03-12T08:05:00.002-05:00

There are so many reasons why living in Paris seems so ideal. The bakeries rank high on my list. Anywhere I have stayed in Paris has put me within a block or two of a local bakery. I love that you can walk in and just buy "one" of something. When I stay in Paris, I occasionally get dressed early and pop downstairs in order to get a fresh bread and a treat for morning coffee.
That is not something I could do here in Canada. In order to have something fresh with our breakfast I would have to get dressed, drive my van 5 kilometers before getting to my local grocery where anything I would like would be packed up in boxes of 4-6. Sigh.
Today I am dreaming of the bakery windows.

The Tower

2011-03-11T09:06:00.003-05:00

While searching online for vintage imagery this very strange image turned up.
It looks like a picture was taken of a piece of art. I can see some edge curl around the sides and bottom. The tower looks like it is in a cemetery. Perhaps this is a World War two illustration.

Postcards From Paris

2011-03-04T22:44:00.002-05:00

Last year I purchased so many wonderful postcards in Paris.
I can't believe I am just getting to the point when I can scan them and correct them a little in Photoshop. This card was very unique and $$. I have the sense that it may have been handmade. The addition of the photo makes me think this couple is real. Wouldn't it be romantic to imagine receiving this in the mail?

Paris On The Brain

2011-03-03T09:14:00.001-05:00

I have work to do. I am so lucky that I can incorporate my love of Paris into projects I owe for my upcoming on air presentations.

The French Typewriter

2011-02-27T09:40:00.003-05:00

Sitting on a table at one of the Paris outdoor antique markets was this fantastic typewriter. I was so tempted to type "take me home" as there was a piece of paper already rolled in place.

I miss using a typewriter. That satisfying "ting" at the end of a row. The tapping of the keys. And boy, in a bad mood you could really make some noise.

The Permanent Flowers at The Pere Lachaise Cemetary

2011-02-17T09:57:00.008-05:00

Something unexpected happened to me at the HUGE cemetery in Paris.
I discovered the glazed ceramic flower.

The Pere Lachaise Cemetery is much larger than I had expected. In the past ten years of traveling to Paris this visit seemed to always fall off my to-do list. But last year I went with a photographer to Paris so the incentive to see the cemetery for myself was finally top of the list. My intention was to spend the morning with Nancy and then head off to separate destinations. In the end, it was an all day journey. Trust me when I say, get the map to the cemetery when you arrive.

There are hundreds of alleys and little streets to walk down.

Many of the very old family mausoleums are starting to crumble. There is so much beauty in the decay. Even the broken glass or rusting doors were beautiful in their own right.

But these permanent flower markers are what caught my eye all day. A ceramic flower would last years instead of the days most cut flowers last.

The ceramic wreaths were amazing. Had I not seen these in the context of the cemetery I might have bought one thinking how nice they would look on my front door at home!

Some of the flowers were newer than others. I wonder if family members wash them when they visit.

I was especially pleased to photograph the flowers that had all sorts of debris in their opening.

Some of the ceramic flowers were broken and real vines were starting to intertwine through the cracks.

This one looks so real!

Tomorrow on my art blog I will have a post showing you a piece of art I made with some of these images. Please have a peak there too!

My Paris Guide Book Back Cover

2011-02-13T10:51:00.003-05:00

Ahh. The things I would buy if I lived in Paris. Every Sunday I think about the big Antique Market north of Paris. It is where I would be. Around every corner is a treasure. And for photographers a grand picture opportunity each and every visit. This wooden man would be in my studio right now if I could have put him in my luggage.

Coming around a corner I saw all these beautiful things and the hint of a cool looking display man.

Lucky for me there was no grouchy shop keeper in site...so I was able to snap a few photos uninterrupted. This one graces the back cover of my book.

The Men in The Antique Market

2011-02-05T20:45:00.002-05:00

This was one of the best windows that crossed my path at the big antique market.

I love these illustrations!

I am so glad my little camera captured this much detail through the glass.

The Beauty Is In The Details

2011-02-03T20:45:00.002-05:00

Last January my apartment in the 6th was right around the corner from these two restaurants. I have always loved the look of shiny black wood.

On one of my later walks the street light hit the side of the second restaurant strangely so I walked over to see what was catching my eye. These silver inlays took my breath away.

This sums of the very reason why I love to walk in Paris. I never know what I will see. Even when I walk down the same street over and over. How lucky Parisians are to live in a city that still decorates the outside of building.

Regrets, I've Had A Few

2011-01-23T22:51:00.003-05:00

Was I crazy?
I just can't believe I didn't buy this necklace! I saw it in April of last year but bought others in the display case...now I am regretting not buying this one. I will return to this Paris shop very soon! I think I would have made a mold of the heart. I am smacking myself.

The Cute Vietnam Restaurant

2011-01-19T10:47:00.003-05:00

I just love the red and green in this picture. This Vietnamese restaurant in one in a million in Paris. I'll never get tired to photographing them. The overhanging baskets above the sign make me happy. This isn't something I see in my own metropolitan city.

Paris Blues

2011-01-16T12:39:00.002-05:00

If I can't be in Paris, I can at least scroll through my thousands of Paris pictures.
I don't recall taking this one.
I am sure though that I was probably attracted to the blue leather elephant.
No that I take a look at the image on my screen I also see that there are some cigarettes you can wear as a brooch. How Paris.

A Good Sale Sign

2011-01-13T09:23:00.003-05:00

I wish I could be in Paris for the January sales! I had a really good time last year walking through the stores.

Here is a great example of a sale sign I really liked.

Covered in buttons. So pretty.

Edible Art

2011-01-08T17:49:00.000-05:00

My Starbucks donut.
On a plate and table in my Paris apartment
January 2010

Paris in January

2011-01-07T17:41:00.003-05:00

I am going down memory lane....and you are coming with me.
Last year at this time I was in Paris.
This is a photo I took of Notre Dame. It was such a gray day, but this burgundy plant interjected all the colour I needed.

What I Am Craving

2011-01-05T22:48:00.003-05:00

I could enjoy one of these right now. I only ever see them in bakeries in Paris.
But if I saw one here...I wouldn't get to have one anyway. Post Christmas diet is on.
So I will enjoy this picture instead.

Street Art In Paris

2011-01-04T09:15:00.002-05:00

You never know what you will stumble across on the streets of Paris.
There is so much art for sale.

I wonder how these two pieces ended up with this vendor.

Now that I have enlarged the images I wish I had taken a closer look. The unique attachment technique gives me all sorts of inspiration.

Paris Antique Market Photo

2011-01-02T10:53:00.001-05:00

Another piece of artwork I would have bought if:
1. It fit in my luggage.
2. I trusted Fed Ex to bring it to Canada safely.
3. My favorite. I would have bought this if I lived in Paris.

Paris Imagery

2010-12-29T13:53:00.003-05:00

I imagine if you were born and lived in Paris, you might not be so interested in decorating your home with Paris imagery. Those of us in North American who love Paris have posters and postcards on display and more than a few Eiffel Towers scattered about our homes. So what might a Parisian love? Here is a very cool couch I spotted in a window. Skyline, Chicago.
If it was for me, I would want to have the Paris as the backdrop!

The Paris Barbie

2010-12-27T10:17:00.003-05:00

Have you ever seen a better collection of Barbies? Look at those vintage outfits. 60's style.

There they were. Amidst the junk and collectibles.
Just an everyday table at an outdoor market in Paris.

Merry Christmas Friends!

2010-12-24T20:26:00.001-05:00

Cute Wire Dolls in The Paris Window

2010-12-23T13:23:00.000-05:00

One wants happiness!

Christmas Colours

2010-12-21T22:11:00.001-05:00

Another peak through a Paris shop window.
I took this picture in 2008. I am still on the hunt for big square red beads.

Chartreuse Is My Favorite Colour

2010-12-18T22:34:00.002-05:00

I absolutely love the colour chartreuse.
So it is no surprise that these windows stopped me in my tracks in Paris.
I love the kiwi necklace! I am on the hunt for a kiwi image now so I can see if I can make something with a fruit theme.

There is not a thing in this window that I do not want. Wrap it up shop keeper!

The Flower In The Paris Window

2010-12-16T15:18:00.002-05:00

From a distance, this t-shirt was already graphically pleasing.
I love a collage of colour and pattern!

On closer inspection I saw that the flower was a large applique style addition.

I am amazed that my little Sony digital can capture this level of detail.
Especially when I have only 5 second to set up and take such a photo before the shop keeper shoos me away.

Colours of Paris

2010-12-14T22:33:00.001-05:00

I bought this beautiful black and white Paris clip art.
I've been colouring it in digitally!

The Coat In The Window

2010-12-12T20:12:00.002-05:00

It isn't often that you see a coat in a Paris store window with the letter "L" visible in the doorway.
And really "L" in Paris stands for Little...as opposed to the North American "Large" we all know and love.
But the "L" we saw and Nancy and I both loved the coat.
"Try it on...it looks like a normal size" I said.
But alas. It did not fit Nancy. I tried it on too and the buttons strained as I tried to close them.
We were both sad. Sad because the coat was different and pretty.
But more so because it was ON SALE.
No doubt I will run into this coat again next time I am in Paris. Some size 2 Parisian will walk by and I'll end up screaming "that's my coat!"

Christmas Colours

2010-12-10T19:40:00.001-05:00

If I was in Paris this weekend I would pop by one of my favorite florists; Happy. I bet I would find a bouquet just like this one. Non traditional Christmas flowers...but definitely Christmas colours!

Snowflake Window Idea

2010-12-09T22:44:00.002-05:00

I thought this window in Montmartre was brilliant. All those white snowflakes make you want to walk right in!

Flowers At The Opera

2010-12-08T23:30:00.002-05:00

If you ever get to tour the Opera in Paris you will be mesmerized by the light and decoration.

I snapped this photo of a fabulous flower arrangement and managed to catch my reflection in the image. This is such a ME photo. Now I know how I look to all the other visitors.

The Red Christmas Tree

2010-12-05T20:59:00.002-05:00

I took this picture of Paul in Paris just after Christmas one year ago. I imagine these trees are back on display. Where can I get a red flocked tree? I love it! I swear if flock came in a spray can....I would have half the front lawn redone.

The Paris BHV Windows

2010-12-04T23:03:00.001-05:00

I adore this logo and could not wait for BHV to put the video of the Christmas window launch online.

It would take me hours to walk by all these windows! Here is the link.

Notre Dame At Christmas

2010-12-03T16:10:00.003-05:00

The Christmas ornaments were still on the trees when I took this picture of Notre Dame in January of 2010. It was so cold on the day I stood here that my fingers tingle with the memory of the frostbite I thought I was experiencing. I am so happy to have been there to see it though.

It Is Almost As Good As Being in Paris

2010-12-02T21:36:00.003-05:00

I would love to be in Paris before Christmas some year. The lights and windows would be spectacular!
Lucky for me I discovered that one of the huge stores had their window opening available for me to see online!
"Noël au Château" du Printemps Haussmann.

Fabulous Paper Chandeleier

2010-11-30T21:53:00.004-05:00

This is a fabulous paper chandelier.

With all the paper leftovers I have in my studio I can't believe I don't have one.....fear of a fire I suspect.
But this window stopped me in my tracks in Paris. It sure is pretty!

Beautiful Paris Window

2010-11-23T22:44:00.002-05:00

In 2008 I tried several times to get a picture of this window.
The reflection from the street and sunlight was hard to work around. Plus, my shadow was in every shot. The window was just so pretty. I was attracted to the teals and pinks. I adore those flowers and thought the indoor grass was a great addition. I hardly glanced at the jewelery.

But with a little time and perseverance I was able to salvage parts of the picture digitally.

I made these two beautiful buttons. Later this week I'll have a post on my regular blog showing how I used these buttons.

Love this Window In Paris

2010-11-20T22:51:00.003-05:00

Many of you will recognize this window. It belongs to a very famous building in Paris that constantly appears in great guides to architecture in Paris. I tweaked it in with photo editing software and like it even more. It looks like I collaged all the elements together...but this is my actual picture with just the colours brightened. I wonder if the people who live behind this window do anything special for Christmas. I would love to go back and take a picture of this window in December.

The Window Is Lovely

2010-11-16T17:13:00.002-05:00

I had just enough contrast in this picture to be able to show you the amazing wire and feather necklace in this Paris window. Isn't it spectacular. In a million years I could not imagine an opportunity to wear it myself, but for a bride....it would be a show stopper.

In my "Art Girl's Guide to Paris" I showcased many wonderful pictures of this store. It really is my first stop in Paris. Many, many Euros have been spent after looking through this window.

Trying to Photograph The Eiffel Tower

2010-11-14T22:18:00.001-05:00

This is a vintage postcard that is so iconic that you immediately know you are looking at the base of the Eiffel Tower. They must have done some very "old school" retouching. There are very few people here and that statue looks cartoonish. Digital editing options were not available to this photographer. So how was this done? Perhaps, this photo is an actual shot of the base of the tower with a little extra tinting.

I have tried to take an interesting photo of the base of the tower.

No such luck. There are always hundreds of people in the way.

Through The Paris Shop Window

2010-11-13T15:19:00.005-05:00

I can't believe I managed to clean this picture up in photoshop. I took the picture by parking my camera lens directly onto the glass window. Worried about a shop keeper rushing out to shoo me away...I took it fast!

I love everything about the empire waist style. Not that I could pull it off myself, but it reminds me so much of Josephine Bonaparte. She would have adored this dress.
Come to think about it. She may have inspired this one having single handedly brought the empire waist fashion craze to France during her years as wife to the First Consul and Empress.
Don't you want to just embellish a dress with velvet and flowers right now?

Opening the Box

2010-11-12T23:13:00.003-05:00

These pictures are close ups from the lid of a box I opened at a Paris antique market.

I originally found the box in a pile by a vendors table at the Marche aux Puces de la porte de Vanves. This antique market is in the 14th and takes place over the weekend. I love this market because it is an outdoor street market with many unusual and unexpected dealers and objects.

I can never walk by a box or drawer without opening it. Are you the same? I have opened hundreds of boxes and never found a thing until this trip to Paris.

Nestled in a bed of hay was this statue.
I have said it before and I'll say it again.
If I lived in France this would have come home with me.
If this box would have fit in my luggage......same thing.

Simple Paris Signage

2010-11-06T09:37:00.003-04:00

This is such a pleasing graphic.

Paris has so many styles. I love a modern sign against a very old background.