For my latest two miniature paintings, I’ve been wooed by buildings with very distinctive personalities!

A few years ago, we visited the village of Saint-Paul de Vence outside Nice, France that is filled with artist studios and galleries, and a wonderful contemporary art collection called the Maeght. I was definitely in my element wandering these narrow streets, peaking into shops, taking pictures of the doors and buildings and flowers and… As we were leaving the village, I came across this artist’s studio and at first quick glance, I was a little confused because it looked like a smiling face was painted onto the building. As I focused, I saw that it wasn’t a painting at all, it was just a window, some shutters, an awning – but the placement gave this building its own jolly (or très jolie) personality. Do you see it? Or was I just overcome by all the town’s creativity?

#131 – Provençal Personality, Saint-Paul de Vence

(2.5″ x 3.5″; ink and watercolour)

And after painting this one, I took on some historic buildings in the Ontario city of Kingston. I love these downtown scenes that celebrate their restored older buildings. I live in a city that has followed this path, but this one is spectacular in Kingston. So much beautiful detail – ornamental cornices, window mantles, tall windows, decorative brickwork… and some romantic climbing ivy! And the stately domed City Hall at the end of the street! No wonder that this city was once the capital of Canada – it sings pride of place and “O Canada” to me!

#132 – Down Ontario Street, Kingston

(2.5″ x 3.5″; ink and watercolour)

Which buildings in your neighbourhood have a definite personality?

(Originals available at local art events, and at my Etsy shop, ArtWeWonderful, on July 6)