French summer inspiration

We explored a few locations in France over the summer, and did a lot of wandering of Paris and Nimes on foot… so much so my poor feet were sore by the end of it! But I had 500+ photos to show for it too by the end, and lots of amazing memories. All the inspiration of the summer has led to some new artworks based on the intriguing French artisan shopfronts I saw on my travels. Individuality, textures and colours, and such wonderful delicacies and products I wouldn’t see at home in the UK made it a ripe subject for exploring. The collage and ink style developed after wanting to pop in as much ready colour as I could, and quickly, and then some loopy handwritten lettering style of font I’d seen leant itself perfectly to the use of a dip pen and ink. The loose, hand-drawn and slightly wobbly nature of the line-work has given the artworks a more relaxed feel. I’m now enjoying dreaming up lots of imaginary storefronts with a French twist!

Hat shop and Book shop collage and ink drawings

Artisan sweet and treat shop (section of)