Étretat: artists’ retreat

Rebecca Hock

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Monet made over 90 paintings here, Courbet portrayed its rugged white cliffs and many other artists have found a source of inspiration in the natural beauty surrounding the little town of Étretat.
I had seen many paintings of the famous arches along this Normandy coastline, so when I one day had the chance to climb those cliffs myself, it felt surreal. I knew I would have to record the memories in the best way I could, with countless photos and in watercolour. Here is a view of the arch named Porte d'Aval, from the neighboring cliff to the south. North of this lies the pebble beach and town of Étretat, where I remember an array of wonderful seaside restaurants, creperies and ice-cream stalls.

On another personal note about this painting, my sister visited Paris recently and made a special visit to the Sennelier shop near the Musée d'Orsay, so that she could buy me a tube of vert turquoise. As I had been unable to go myself, her gift was extra touching. I was happy to include this vibrant colour in my painting, as on a sunny day the sea of Étretat can turn many shades of blue-green.

9 months ago