This original pen and ink artwork is of a classic French cafe scene in Avignon, Provence. The setting is the beautiful Place des Chataignes, a quiet and somewhat hidden square away from the better-known sights of the city.
Shuttered windows, wicker chairs and strong sunlight create the unmistakable atmosphere of a Provençal street café. The large shadows cast across the square add a wonderful sense of depth and contrast, while the architectural details provide plenty for the eye to explore.
There is something wonderfully evocative about a French café scene like this. You can almost imagine sitting beneath the shade, watching people wander through the square and, of course, enjoying a coffee. In fact, I can almost smell it from here.
The drawing is less about recording a precise moment and more about capturing that relaxed Provençal café atmosphere– warm sunlight, old buildings, quiet streets and the simple pleasure of taking time to stop and look around.
 
Subject: French Café in Avignon, Provence, France
Medium: Ink pen
Surface: Bristol 500 smooth paper
Image size: 7x10.5"
Framed: No
Original: Yes
Certificate of Authentication: Yes
Artist: Graham McKenzie-Smith