Lana

Travel Study Program: Catherine Stock’s watercolor workshop

Why I decided to study art abroad: Since I’m an art teacher, I’ve long wanted to travel to Europe and see some of the art that I’ve read about in art history books.

My experience at this program: Catherine Stock is wonderful. Her course is well planned with excellent instruction, painting demonstrations, studio time and outings to explore the region.

My biggest challenge: Leaving when it was time to go. The hospitality of Catherine and the residents of Rignac made it hard to leave. They welcomed us and even invited us to share their food and bonfire to celebrate Midsummer’s Eve. I would have been happy to wander the countryside and paint for the remainder of the summer.

Surprises: I went to France with no preconceived notions or expectations. I saw it as a long-anticipated adventure. Every surprise I had, from the food to the people to the markets, was a pleasant one.

My tips for readers who want to study abroad: I wish I had read more about the region before going there. Do some research about the area you intend to visit.

Cultural differences I faced: I didn’t face any cultural difference in France that I didn’t like. I did have the experience of trying to buy rubbing alcohol (to be used in a painting technique, not as a disinfectant) at the small pharmacy in Rignac. One of my fellow travelers spoke more French than I did, and we managed to communicate our need to the store clerk. Our game of pantomime eventually produced the bottle of rubbing alcohol and was part of the fun and adventure of traveling in a foreign country.

What to expect from a study experience in France: If it is southern France, in Dordogne or the Lot region, you can expect to see scenic rural landscapes, colorful outdoor markets and friendly people. While I was in Paris I felt a strong sense of time and history. As I crossed streets that are older than the United States I realized just how young our country is.

My favorite places: I highly recommend a tour of the cave paintings of Pech-Merle and exploring the historic monument of Rocamadour. While in Paris, buy a two-day ticket for L’Open Tour bus, an excellent way to see the sights and become familiar with the city.