Westport River Gallery is pleased to exhibit the latest works by Master artrist Elisabeth Estivalet. Her enamel-looking oil paintings of Provence display the rolling countryside of southern France, impressions of houses, robust trees and gardens.
Provence’s rolling farmlands, sun-drenched coasts and looming valleys have always been a source of inspiration to the great painters of history, including Elisabeth Estivalet
A native of Poland, Estivalet fell in love with the region of Provence when she settled there in the late 1970’s. Though she holds degrees in both Economics and Philosophy,
the countryside of Provence elicited from her a natural artistic talent, and she instinctively embarked on a passionate and lifelong career as an artist. Painting
solely with a palette knife, Estivalet taught herself to master the techniques of color management, perspective and composition. What resulted are candid renditions of a
tranquil and serene Provence.
Estivalet’s sunny landscapes bring to mind the works of the old Post-Impressionist masters. Her subject matter and artistic style are reminiscent of the masterful works
of Paul Cézanne. Her thick palette and vibrant colors are evocative of Vincent Van Gogh and Paul Gaughin in Arles. Yet, in spite of the many similarities and comparisons, Estivalet stands alone as a painter. Her exceptional interpretations of Provence are unrivaled. Her refreshing works elicit feelings of contentment and tranquility, and invite one to explore a pristine and undiscovered French countryside.
