To freeze in time and on paper this unique emotion, the one you feel the first time you arrive in La Croix Valmer. It is from this desire that the idea of a Travel Journal was born, to capture the soul of the village, its landscapes, its encounters… and share them with you.
To bring this adventure to life, we called upon Sonia Privat, a world-renowned sketch artist known for her sensitive eye and unparalleled talent. She spent a few days listening to the stories of the locals, immersing herself in the landscapes, and painting what she felt. Her sketchbook is La Croix Valmer as seen through her artist’s heart: a blend of beauty and pure emotion.
Today, she tells us about her inspiration, her discoveries, and how she translated the magic of our village through her art.
What made you accept this travel journal project in La Croix Valmer ?
I am a traveler and I have always loved the Mediterranean, a true gateway to so many destinations! When Florence (Director of La Croix Valmer Tourism) proposed this project to me, I thought that a new challenge far from the exotic lands I usually frequent would be a wonderful adventure.
What immediately struck you upon arriving in La Croix Valmer? A landscape, an encounter, an emotion?
Blue! The blue of the sky, the blue of the sea… This landscape of absolute beauty, no matter where you look. And in the distance, on the horizon, those islands whose silhouettes are sometimes tinged with blue by the mist.
How did you capture the soul of La Croix Valmer in your sketchbook? Is there a detail, a color, or a scene that symbolizes the essence of this village for you?
For me, the soul of a village lies in its historic quarters and the hearts of its inhabitants. I took immense pleasure in capturing traces of the past, like the Rue des Cigales, but also in painting life through a game of pétanque or the colors of the market…
You spent several days here, during which the locals and the places told you stories: what moment or anecdote marked your creation?
I was so warmly welcomed at every place I visited, with such genuine kindness, that it’s difficult to list them all! I’m thinking, of course, of Château Valmer, Villa Louise, and all those vineyards… Naturally, I enjoyed the guided tours led by Pierre, a passionate ranger at Port-Cros National Park, with whom I was able to fully understand and appreciate the beauty of this natural environment!
If you had to summarize La Croix Valmer in 3 words or in one sentence, what would it be?
The luxury of protected nature, such pure air, its calm and beauty… A corner of paradise!
Is there an illustration in this notebook that you are particularly proud of? Why?
I must say I’m quite proud of my watercolor landscapes. Having been more
accustomed to portraits in exotic locales, I had to relearn how to tame the
light: using blues of absolute purity and sculpting shades of green to
paint these majestic pines that so fascinated me.
And also my little digression on the D-Day landings, inventing a sequel to this old photo
which we’ll let you discover in the notebook…
What would you like people to feel when they leaf through your notebook?
A travel journal is first and foremost a collection of emotions. Between the drawing and painting, the exploration of places, and the notes taken on the spot, each page is a moment of happiness that I want to share. My greatest wish is that readers feel all the pleasure I experienced in bringing this journal to life.
One last word for those who might still hesitate to discover La Croix Valmer through your eyes?
Admittedly, the luxurious image of the coast and the proximity of Saint-Tropez might intimidate the traveler. But from the first step into this tranquil and welcoming village, one feels an atmosphere of calm, simplicity, and purity that will sweep away any hesitation.
A huge thank you to Sonia Privat for her time and for this magnificent work, which perfectly captures the soul of La Croix Valmer.
Her travel journal is now available for purchase at the Tourist Office. A wonderful way to extend the magic of our village.
