A new exhibition set in a historically beautiful villa in the south of France, includes an extensive collection of work by Shirley Baker.
Villa Théo is a delightful Arts Centre, situated in Saint Clair, Le Lavandou. The small and characterful gallery was once the former residence of the Neo-Impressionist painter Théo Van Rysselberghe (1862-1926). Set in verdant gardens, the gallery owners often shows work by artists who lived, or were inspired by, the Côte d’Azur, and are keen to preserve the artistic history of its stunning location. With its pure and unique light, the south of France has always drawn artists to the region, who find inspiration in its colour and vibrant nature.
The exhibition, showing till 31st January 2026, is titled Photographes Voyageuses and focuses on five female artists who were inspired by travel. Sometimes this may be crossing borders, and for women this may involve breaking through other barriers, reclaiming spaces and striking out into what was considered male territory.
Shirley Baker spent summers in Le Lavandou in the 1970s and 80s, at a time when the area around Le Lavandou was much less touched by tourism. Moreover, life on the Mediterranean was far removed from what she was used to at home in Manchester. The buildings, the beaches and – most significantly – the people and French way of life – were recorded in her images.
Photographes Voyageuses at Villa Theo, Saint-Clair, Le Lavandou, Var. 25 October to 31 January 2026
