Chantal Pons is showcasing her latest watercolor collection at the tourist office of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon through August 15, offering visitors a peaceful glimpse into the natural world through her artistic vision. The exhibition features 23 works depicting trees and animals, capturing the tranquility of nature that has inspired the artist since she made Le Chambon-sur-Lignon her home twelve years ago.

This marks Pons' third exhibition in the village, following previous shows in 2016 and 2022. Her latest collection, displayed on the upper floor of the tourist office, reveals a new dimension of her artistic journey with notable Japanese influences. The artist has incorporated elements of traditional Japanese aesthetics into her nature-focused compositions, creating a unique fusion of Western watercolor techniques and Eastern artistic sensibilities.

One particularly meaningful aspect of this collection is Pons' use of pink pigments, which she dedicated to her mother who passed away earlier this year. "I used pink for my mom, who died this year," the artist explained, adding a deeply personal element to her nature studies.

Pons employs a distinctive combination of materials in her work, utilizing watercolor, ink, and specialized yupo paper to achieve her desired effects. The yupo paper, a synthetic material popular among watercolor artists, presents both challenges and advantages. "When you draw, it requires precision in the stroke," Pons noted. "But the colors come out more vivid with this paper." This technical choice allows her to achieve the bright, luminous quality that characterizes her natural subjects, making flowers more vibrant and bringing wildlife to life on the page.

All 23 paintings in the exhibition are available for purchase, with prices ranging from 50 to 250 euros, making original artwork accessible to a variety of collectors and art enthusiasts. The pricing reflects the different sizes and complexity of the works, allowing visitors to find pieces that fit both their aesthetic preferences and budget.

The exhibition maintains regular hours throughout the week to accommodate both tourists and local art lovers. Visitors can view the collection Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and again from 2:30 PM to 6:30 PM. Sunday hours are more limited, with the exhibition open from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. These extended hours ensure that working residents and vacationing visitors alike have ample opportunity to experience Pons' artistic tribute to nature.

Pons plans to be present at the exhibition on Wednesdays and Saturdays, which coincide with the village's market days, creating an opportunity for visitors to meet the artist and discuss her work directly. She will also be available during select afternoon hours throughout the exhibition period, providing insights into her creative process and the inspiration behind individual pieces. These personal interactions offer art enthusiasts a chance to learn about her techniques, her journey as an artist, and the stories behind specific works in the collection.

The exhibition represents not only Pons' artistic evolution but also her deep connection to the natural environment of Le Chambon-sur-Lignon, a village known for its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Her work captures the essence of this tranquil setting while incorporating broader artistic influences, creating a body of work that speaks to both local residents and visitors from around the world.