A photograph taken by Shirley Baker is included in an exhibition currently running at Villa Théo, the Arts Centre, situated in Saint Clair, Le Lavandou, in the south of France. This small and characterful gallery, once the former residence of the Neo-Impressionist painter Théo Van Rysselberghe (1862-1926), and set in beautiful gardens, often shows work by artists who lived, or were inspired by, the Côte d’Azur. Its rich history and unique light drew many artists to the region.
The current show called Views of Le Lavandou (1st February to 31 May) features a mix of painting and photography, inviting visitors to rediscover treasures from the municipal collections as well as an array of artwork from private collectors and local families. The photograph by Shirley Baker titled Boulangers du Lavandou was taken around 1980 and depicts bakers carrying a basket of baguettes through the streets.
During the 1970s, Shirley Baker and her husband Tony, started taking holidays in Le Lavandou which was then, as now, an unspoilt area, popular with families. Shirley may have found her surroundings somewhat different to the impoverished streets of Manchester, nevertheless she was never short of subject matter. She captured the local ‘street life’ of tourists on the beach and, as in the photo displayed here, showed a compassion and interest in the local workers going about their business.
The exhibition Views of Le Lavandou is on from 1st February to 31st May.
Villa Théo, 265 Ave. Van Rysselberghe, 83980 Le Lavandou, France.
