The whole of the region around Perpignan is famous for its excellent light and to this day continues to be a mecca for artists. So no excuses for not taking at least a few interesting photos as I continue to test out my new super-light travel kit, the Fuji XT20 combined with the 27mm F2.8 pancake lens.
One of the favorite locations for the art fraternity is the small town of Céret, located some 45 minutes bus-ride from Perpignan and nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenées, with the mighty Canigu dominating the back-drop.
The good thing about Department 66 of the Pyrénnees-Orientales is that public transport is a bargain. For a Euro you can take a bus anywhere in the Département and the buses are both comfortable and punctual. You also have the opportunity to enjoy the countryside and whatever the weather, it is simply breathtaking.
Céret is located in the canton of Vallespir-Albères and in the arrondissement of Céret. It is located on the River Tech and indeed, upon arrival at the outskirts of Céret, we were immediately greeted by the famous Pont Du Diable (The Devils Bridge).
Constructed between 1321 and 1341 and with a single span of some 45.5 meters, at its time of construction it was apparently the world's largest arch bridge in terms of span length. It is now closed to traffic and only used as a footbridge. Irrespective of its claim to fame it gave me an opportunity to take a couple of interesting shots.
Immediately adjacent to the Pont Du Diable is the new modern road bridge and the "Pont Neuf" with its back-drop of the Pyrénées.
Our planned destination was The Musée D'Art Moderne De Céret. Indeed the town has always had a tradition of being a home for artists and scultpers, notably Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse and Aristide Maillol.
It is a pleasant but uphill walk to the Centre Ville where the Museum is situated so make sure you have comfortable walking shoes. However, when you arrive "Au Centre Ville" it is all you imagine this small French town to be, especially when the sun shines!
The Musée D'Art Moderne is located in the Boulevard Maréchal Joffre and my wikipedia research indicates that it was originally created by Pierre Brune and Frank Burty Haviland in 1950, with the personal support of their friends Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse, who were both apparently involved in its creation.
Whilst we had a great time in the Museum, which is extremely calm and relaxed, much of the art from contemporary artists that we wanted to see was stored away and instead they were exhibiting collections by more current artists. I am sure that someone somewhere will call me a Phillistine but some of these modern Artists would appear to have extremely troubled minds! Nevertheless, there was much to see and I have set out a selection of my favourite exhibits below.
There is also a charming "Old Town" with lots of Art Galleries and Arts Shops as well as numerous restaurants which allowed us the opportunity for a refreshing Gallopin (small beer) and a light lunch.
Céret really is a gem of a place and as we wandered down the hill to our bus stop, eating a freshly made local ice cream, the serenity and beauty of this town made me contemplate why we have to return to the hustle and bustle of modern life?
Then the reality check; its the day job that pays for these wonderful diversions!