Monetier is a picturesque village in the heart of the Hautes Alpes region of the French Alps. With its delightful, rural architecture and stunning mountain scenery, the area offers a unique opportunity for painters of any level to develop their creativity, in landscape painting and drawing, however abstract or traditional their approach.
The Chalet Charlotte is a comfortable converted monastery in the centre of Monetier with rooms suitable for singles, couples and groups. The lounge area is in a stunning vaulted room on the ground floor and is a great place to relax before and after dinner.
Matthew Berry will be on hand throughout the week to help you make the most of the area and to provide help and support with your work. You will need to bring your own materials and equipment with you including paints, easels (a small travel one is best), canvas, paper, brushes and anything else you may wish to use. If you are flying, please check with your airline about carriage of any items you bring.
The first day or two could be spent exploring and sketching in the village and local area. A trip to the old walled town of Briancon (just down the valley) can also be arranged. You may then wish to concentrate your efforts in one preferred location.
Every evening before dinner there will be a chance to show and discuss your work and exchange ideas with others.
Matthew Berry studied Fine Art at Byam Shaw School of Art (now part of the London Institute). He has worked as a mural painter and designer but has continued to paint, working on private commissions, portraits and specialises in large landscape paintings in oil on canvas.
