Painting Provence: In the Brushstrokes of Aurore

“The whole future of art is to be found in the South of France” Vincent Van Gogh, Letter to Theo Van Gogh, 1888

We set our scene in the heart of beautiful Gordes, one of Provence’ most breathtaking hilltop villages. Here, Aurore Chesseret, a talented and visionary artist, has found the perfect setting to bring her artistic vision to life. Known for her evocative use of nature and introspection, Aurore has made intuitive painting the heart of her artwork. With a style that blends both colors and abstraction, Aurore captures nature’s soul, inviting viewers to see landscapes through her eyes.

At Excursus, we believe that true luxury lies in experiences that awaken the senses and forge deep connections with a place. That’s why we are thrilled to collaborate with Aurore for an exclusive painting masterclass, offering a rare opportunity to learn directly from the artist herself in an intimate and inspiring setting.

In this interview, we step inside Aurore’ world to explore her journey, philosophy, inspirations and the timeless beauty of Provence that fuels her creativity. And for those who have ever dreamt of capturing this landscape of canvas: an extraordinary artistic experience awaits…

Q.: Can you tell us about your artistic journey? How did you start?

A.C.: “My days often begin with activities other than artistic creation: walking in nature, Italian and yoga classes, a coffee at my favorite bar in Gordes or reading a book I’m currently working through. Then, the work begins in my studio, continuing until the end of the day, when I stop as soon as there’s no more natural light. The studio is open to the outside, so depending on the season, my breaks are often punctuated by sunshine, much to my delight!”

Q.: What motivated your transition from architecture to visual arts?

A.C.: “I felt deeply unfulfilled in my job as an architect, overwhelmed by high levels of stress. I realized that living this way was not sustainable for me in the long term. At 30, I made the decision to leave everything behind, settle permanently in the Luberon area, and focus on what truly brought me happiness and fulfillment: creation and art.”

Q.: How would you describe your artistic style?

A.C.: “My art is undoubtedly abstract, tough in different ways, depending on my inspiration. It can be raw and almost wild —one of my collections is called Primitif, where I used unprocessed materials. But it can also be poetic and lyrical, like an ode to nature, with soft shapes and colors. I appreciate this duality, as I believe we are all dual in nature.”

Q.: What inspires your work? Are there specific elements of Provence that influence your creations?

A.C.: “Natural elements —plants, minerals— are my primary inspiration. Only nature has the power to immerse me in a state of wonder, touching something deep, raw and wild within me. The landscapes here fill me with awe, each season bringing its own unique beauty.”

Q.: Are there any local traditions or techniques that you incorporate into your work?

A.C.: “All the materials I use are sourced from the region. I work with the pigments of the Luberon ochres and local plants, which I transform into inks and dyes. Everything is natural, without any synthetic additives. The paper I use is from small company, and the hemp, linen and cotton fabrics are all recycled, often found here through flea markets and hand-me-downs. I place great importance on minimizing my impact on the environment.”

Q.: What role does Provence’ light, landscape and culture play in your artistic process?

A.C.: “From the moment I first set foot in Provence, I didn’t want to leave. The light here is incomparable —raw and pure. For a painter, that is priceless. The unspoiled landscapes offer breathtaking scenes year-round and I live in harmony with the rhythm of this ever-changing nature. Life moves at a different pace here—we take the time to truly live. It’s deeply inspiring.”

Q.: Who are your main clients or collectors? Do you often work with international buyers?

A.C.: “My clients and buyers come from diverse backgrounds: some are here in Provence and the surroundings regions, many are in Paris and others are spread across Europe —including Switzerland, Spain and Austria— as well as the United States. To my great joy, my works often cross the Atlantic. I also create commissioned pieces upon request.”

Q.: Do you collaborate with local businesses, hotels or galleries?

A.C.: “I have my own studio-gallery, where I welcome visitors and buyers by appointment. Each year, I showcase my work in various public exhibitions. I also collaborate with hotels, concierges, showrooms, galleries and fellow artists in the area.”

Q.: What do you hope people feel when they see your work?

A.C.: “I hope my work resonates with their sensitivity —like poetry— and also speaks to the wild, free part of them.”

Q.: How would you describe the artistic scene in Provence today?

A.C.: “I believe that art and craftsmanship are experiencing a strong revival. Our region is rich in artistic heritage and home to many skilled artisans. Today, there is a growing desire to reconnect with these roots while bringing them new life. I love being part of this renewal.”

Q.: Do you think Provence is a good place for emerging artists? Why?

A.C.: “Provence attracts many visitors, offering young artists and creators a valuable opportunity to gain recognition. New exhibition spaces and showrooms are emerging, along with dedicated spaces for artist residencies.”

Q.: What is your perfect day in Provence? Any favorite spots?

A.C.: “Having a coffee at my village bar in Gordes, a quick stroll through the local market, lunch in the shade of the pine trees and a delicious glass of Luberon wine —that’s already a perfect start. The day can end with a peaceful walk, just as the cicadas fall silent and the crickets take over.”

Q.: Do you have a favorite place to find inspiration?

A.C.: “They are simple moments —under a large tree, among the ochres, or in the quiet of my studio. My little indulgence? Taking the road to the coast for a swim in the sea and returning with eyes filled with its endless blue. And, of course, I have my secret hideaways…”

Q.: How do you envision the evolution of your art in the coming years? Are there new medium of themes you are eager to explore?

A.C.: “I am incredibly fortunate to live from my passion and I hope to make the most of it —continuing to develop exhibition projects and collaborations. An exhibition abroad? I would love that. I also want to further explore natural dyeing and expand into new artistic forms beyond painting, working with raw materials like wood, textiles and leaves.”

Q.: You offer in-residence workshops as a part of our Excursus-Only experiences: what inspired you to integrate intuitive painting and yoga sessions into your practice?

A.C.: “I love offering creative experiences to people because creativity is a true source of well-being. Intuitive painting allows us to tap into the creative freedom we all possess but often overlook. By integrating yoga into intuitive painting, the experience becomes a deep connection between body and mind —total surrender.”

Q.: Are there upcoming exhibitions or projects you’re excited about and would like to share with us?

A.C.: “In May and June, I will be participating in an exhibition titled “Dialogue Between Fiber and Mineral”. In September (13th and 14th), the artists of Gordes will open the doors to their studios for a weekend —a special opportunity to discover many local talents. In May 2026, I will take part in a beautiful exhibition in Gordes themed “The Mistral”. I have other personal projects in the works, but it seems that keeping them secret helps them come to life more successfully (an old Provençal adage, perhaps?).”