As always, this Art Trek flew by and it was already the last day. So, we decided that we had so much fun painting earlier in the week in Colmar, that we would revisit that beautiful spot and paint in another direction since the scenery was inspiring all around. Today I set up my easel amongst the Russian sage and Black-eyed Susans to capture their joy and energy with a sliver of the cross-timbered architecture in the distance to set the stage. Meanwhile below you can see some of my talented students’ paintings working in watercolor, pastel and acrylic.

 

While we painted the rest of our group hopped a train to Strasbourg and toured the town, and others just enjoyed their last free day in Colmar. That night we gathered for one more delicious dinner, enjoying the company of new friends. What an amazing Trek!

 

After a relaxing day in Colmar, we ventured forth on day 5 to visit the next picturesque village on the Alsatian wine route, Ribeauvillé. My painters and I set up in this beautiful park to capture the surrounding beauty while the photographers went in search for the perfect shot and the tourists grabbed the train, which toured the area and gave them some history on the region. I loved all of these colorful planted flowers, so working more loosely and impressionistically today, I set out to capture the joy of the moment. 

 

 

 

 

Just Sold!  On the fourth day of our Alsace Art Trek, it was time to slow down the pace and enjoy our home-base town of Colmar.  This city is so enchanting, like something out of a Brothers Grimm fairy tale, that it is hard to narrow down what to paint. I settled on this quiet area along the canals where my painters could sit and take in the beautiful views. Each student found their own unique scene to capture. Meanwhile I actually decided to paint my students sitting on this picturesque bench. Gary with his straw hat looked so dapper that I had to record the moment in acrylic!

 

 

While we painted, the photographers and tourists continued to explore every narrow alleyway, historical building and square, picturesque canal and French/German accents indicative of only the Alsatian region. Later that evening, we reconvened for a delicious dinner and to discuss stories from our day.