This summer, we are so fortunate to be able to see wonderful paintings done in the region, at the major galleries. But I’d also urge you to find some time to have a look at the work of an American artist, Jill Steenhuis, who lives and paints locally: her passion for Provence is reflected in the vibrant tableaux she produces. Her annual exhibition also includes scuptures by her husband Serge Ruffato and work by their son. A talented family. At La Galerie de la Prévoté in Place des Martyrs de la Résistance (near the Cathedral). Daily 10-19:00hrs; until 30th June.
La Fete de la Musique takes place on Friday 21st June throughout France. It’s a splendid tradition introduced by Jack Lang which gives a large audience to (usually) local musicians, and gives us all an eclectic evening of free music. In Marseille there is to be a huge concert televised live from the Vieux Port on France 2 – Christophe Maé, Patrick Bruel, Nolwenn Leroy and Jenifer are among the stars who will appear. Over 400,000 are expected to be in the streets of Marseille, something you might want to bear in mind if you are going down there. The massive stage is being installed opposite La Samaritaine café, facing the Ombriere. It was going to be facing the Canebiere but this plan had to be abandoned as the cameras could not film into the sunset. There will be large screens elsewhere to relay the concert to the crowds.
As for Aix, there will be music everywhere. Here is the programme: http://www.aixenprovence.fr/Fete-de-la-Musique-2013
The following day you can recover at Jas de Bouffan with a journée culturelle et gourmande. ‘Goutez Voir Chez Cézanne’ comprises
walks in the master’s footsteps, local societies’ stands and a wine tasting. You can enjoy your picnic in the garden from 13:00hrs and then join the guided tours, dance sessions or workshops. Something for everyone it seems. Goodness knows what the Cézanne family would have made of it! Full programme here: http://www.aixenprovencetourism.com/aix-art-et-terroir.htm. Thanks Juliet for the heads-up.
On Sunday 23rd June, there will be an art market in the Cours Mirabeau. Part of the ‘Les Calades Provencales’ programme, La Foire aux Croutes has painters and sculptors who will be selling their work: who knows, you might find tomorrow’s masterpiece at a bargain price!
Sunday also sees the 19th edition of the Feux de la Saint-Jean with processions and danses provençales in the streets to celebrate the arrival of the flame. At the Rotonde there will be a 
spectacle folklorique ‘Ballet Fête’ followed by the blessing of the fire.
This celebration which is linked to the solstice takes place in many Mediterranean countries but also in China and Scandinavia.
You can find out more about the traditions behind this event at a stand which will be at the Rotonde during the day – and you can inscribe your wish on a wooden block which will go into the fire. Similar celebrations will be taking place at villages througout the region. Thanks to Anne for this info.
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