As I was driving into work yesterday I saw an elderly couple out for their daily walk. They were holding hands in that obviously easy intimate and tender way that couples who have lived through most of their lives together seem to always do. Obviously ”in love” older couples always seem to bring my emotions to the surface. To me, they symbolize acceptance, perserverance, unselfishness, devotion, commitment, and the power of enduring love. Happy Valentines Day!

Aaah, the South of France! Everything there seems perfectly crafted to delight the senses. Where the preparation and presentation of lunch, paired with a fragrant wine to accompany lively conversation or simple relaxation seems to have been raised to an artform. Where trees have been planted to frame a road like a cathedral arch and bright sunlight shines on perfectly pigmented plaster walls and wooden shutters show the affects of the ideal amount of weathering.

It is where artists of all persuasions have gone for inspiration for centuries and we were no exception. We found inspiration there in the lifestyles and in the simple beauty and the ongoing Art of Living project is the result.

So how do we define the “Art of Living”? As working professional decorative artists and educators we have been successful at crafting and creating lifestyles and livelihoods that satisfy and nurture our creative souls as they were meant to be. We feel quite fortunate to be able to both live artfully and to make a living through our art. Like many though, we are looking to create more balance, beauty and purpose in our lives. We hope to accomplish some of that through this perpetual project that “gives back” and inspires others to pursue their own creative path.

The Art of Living is living life as if you are creating a piece of art. It is about finding yourself, finding beauty through art and artful living, creating more of it and sharing it with others. An endless cycle.