2024 is most definitely a commemorative year for Normandy.

First, it is 80 years since the Allies victoriously stormed the beaches on D-Day to set about the German hold. Second, it is 150 years since the impressionists – Monet, Dégas, Renoir, Pissarro and their friends – shocked the French academic art world with their June 1874 exhibition in Paris. These young artists outraged their predecessors by painting outside in the open air.

The majority of this artistic venture happened in Normandy. The reasons being the closeness to Paris, the popularity of the coastal resorts among wealthy Parisians and the particular quality of the light along this stretch of coastline.

The inner country landscape with a deep luscious green, is overwhelmingly tranquil and inviting. The locals busy themselves fishing and farming – all the luscious greenness produces butter, cream, cheese and cider.
Is it any wonder that writers and artists have flocked to this region of France and more recently artist David Hockney has made it his home.