Already half way through the year and with Summer Holidays in full swing France is alive with a huge range of events- festivals, brocantes, markets, displays even a “Rolling Stones” gig (more about that next month😊)

However a trip to the UK kicked off the month to catch up with family and friends but also to fulfill a dream, for me not so sure about Chris! On July 7th not only did we get to visit the Munnings Museum in Dedham Vale (yes Constable Country too) but I was able to participate in a plein air Royal Ascot Paint Out.

Live models, 2 thoroughbreds and assorted “jockeys, owners and trainers” were organised for the weekend and along with a lovely atmosphere, weather and superb lunch in the marquee, us artists enjoyed a perfect day as easels scattered the lawn in front of the very studio that Sir Alfred Munnings had used.

The models were amazing coping with heat and blazing sun on the first day and showers on the second, although not “racing fit” or real jockeys, a bit of artistic license was all that was required and with a load of reference photos on the IPad I have enough references to create my “Munnings Masterpiece” down the track 😊 But firstly some sketches before deciding on a composition.

Now some works from the man himself along with a few interior shots of his studio.

Some of his studio props along with a few sculptures.

From Munnings we went further back in time to the Medieval era paying another visit to our favourite château La Rochefoucauld, this time for the annual  Medieval Fête. What an experience! It was fantastic.

We expected a rather low key costumed re-enactment but it was a full blown weekend of spectacle and history. Everything from strolling minstrels and musketeers to falconry displays and some serious looking jousting!!
Jugglers and lords and ladies mingled with the enthusiastic crowd as we wandered through the array of artisan stalls – blacksmiths, glass engravers, wood carvers and bronze workers, the quality was wonderful.

A short video which may take a little time to load?! Minstrels and juggler.

IMG_2002

With time to grab a snack lunch we enjoyed some medieval fayre washed down with a beer and cider (in a must have souvenir tumbler) before heading over to grab a front row seat for the jousting tournament. Was able to have a brief chat with one of the Cavaliers and determine that the horses were all Spanish bred.

as we settled into our seats the crowd began to build and the action began, with good and evil fighting it out on their trusty steeds or in close combat rolling across the ground, the whole re-enactment was well staged and soon had the crowds roaring and booing before good triumphed over evil!

The Goodie and The Baddie.

Another little video.

IMG_1992

The village beneath the castle with the wafting aroma of spit roast cochons!

After a great afternoon’s entertainment we headed home passing musketeers and falcons en route.

When I can work out how to transfer Chris fab photos from his camera there may be more medieval shots next month!