Celebrating Impressionism: My turbulent Journey Exhibiting in Rueil Malmaison

It's almost here! My next exhibition is just around the corner, and I can hardly contain my excitement!

La Mairie, 2025

The beautiful city of Rueil Malmaison has graciously invited me to showcase a collection of 30 of my paintings at the stunning 𝗠é𝗱𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗵è𝗾𝗵𝘂𝗲 𝗝𝗮𝗰𝗾𝘂𝗲𝘀-𝗕𝗮𝘂𝗺𝗲𝗹, an exquisite venue located conveniently next to the iconic city hall. This remarkable location not only offers a picturesque backdrop for my artwork but also serves as a vibrant cultural hub that reflects the artistic spirit of the community. Nestled along the serene banks of the Seine River, Rueil Malmaison possesses a rich artistic heritage and has long been home to legendary artists such as Renoir, Monet, Berthe Morisot, Manet, and Gustave Caillebotte. The very streets I walk echo with the footsteps of these masters, and given my deep connection to Impressionism, I couldn’t have asked for a more fitting place to live and create my art. The vibrant atmosphere and the stunning landscapes that inspired these greats continue to fuel my passion and creativity, providing a constant source of inspiration for my artistic endeavors.

This year, the city is celebrating its rich ties to Impressionism with a series of events and exhibitions designed to honor this influential movement. They thought my paintings would fit perfectly into their theme, which is a testament to the enduring legacy of Impressionism in this region. I feel incredibly honored to be a part of this celebration, which aims to highlight the historical significance of Impressionism while also showcasing contemporary interpretations of this timeless style. The exhibition will not only feature my work but also create a dialogue between past and present, allowing visitors to appreciate how the Impressionist movement has evolved and how it continues to inspire modern artists like myself.

Reflecting on how I arrived at this juncture in my artistic journey is a bit of a winding path filled with both challenges and triumphs. Shortly after moving to France, I settled into my quaint little apartment overlooking the Seine River, only to discover that across the river stood the Maison Fournaise, a favorite hot spot for Renoir and his contemporaries. One of his most famous paintings, Luncheon of the Boating Party, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Luncheon_of_the_Boating_Party, was inspired by this very restaurant, which has been beautifully preserved and continues to serve delicious meals on the same balcony where Renoir once dined. The street I live on is named Ile des Impressionnistes (Island of the Impressionists), and just a short stroll away lies a charming park along the river called Parc des Impressionistes, which is almost as lovely as Monet's garden in Giverny. During this transformative time, I was still in the process of discovering my own artistic identity. I painted what surrounded me, capturing the life along the river and the beauty of the landscapes that unfolded before my eyes.

As I transitioned from painting in watercolor to oil, I found myself grappling with the differences between these two mediums. I painted often, even through moments of frustration when I questioned my abilities and contemplated quitting altogether. The pressure to conform to modern and abstract styles weighed heavily on me, as I felt the expectations of the contemporary art world pressing down. I attempted to adapt my work to fit these trends, but it never felt authentic to my voice. Interestingly, those around me began to comment that my work bore a resemblance to that of the Impressionists. This revelation surprised me, as I had not consciously aimed to emulate their style; it simply emerged in my paintings. Initially, I resisted this notion, unwilling to be pigeonholed as merely a follower of past masters. I yearned to create something new and different, to carve out my own unique space in the art world.

In my quest for understanding, I turned to books on creativity and sought out podcasts that explored the experiences of other artists. I learned that many creatives grapple with similar doubts and insecurities, often questioning the validity of their work. This realization brought me comfort, and I made a pivotal decision: I would embrace my way of making art without hesitation or self-doubt. I resolved to paint freely, liberated from the constraints of expectation, and to trust in my instinctive connection to Impressionism. It was at this moment of acceptance and clarity that the city reached out to me. They expressed their desire to feature my work in the exhibition because I paint in a manner reminiscent of the Impressionists! This acknowledgment not only validated my artistic journey but also reignited my passion for creating art that speaks to the beauty of the world around me.

I hope you will come and immerse yourself in my world of creativity and inspiration! This exhibition promises to be a wonderful experience for art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. I invite you to bring your friends and family for a day filled with culture, beauty, and artistic expression. The exhibition will run from 𝗝𝗨𝗟𝗬 𝟭 to 𝗔𝗨𝗚𝗨𝗦𝗧 𝟯𝟭, providing ample opportunity for everyone to explore my work and engage with the community.

Please 𝘙𝘚𝘝𝘗 in the comments below. I look forward sharing this incredible journey with all of you!