There are many reasons why I love studying art and art history in Aix-en-Provence and at the Marchutz School! Aix has a great art scene, with several museums and galleries within walking distance. The architecture also has a rich history, with elements from Roman, Medieval and Baroque eras. It serves as a great inspiration for me! Cultural sites where Cezanne and Van Gogh painted are close by. Some of these locations are accessible by foot, while the Marchutz School takes us on excursions to see a few outside of Aix. There are opportunities to see their works in person as well! There are lots of great spots to paint from life, including at the base of Mt. Sainte Victoire, which was one of Cezanne’s favorite motifs. I love that we are allowed to switch between drawing and painting whenever we see fit, unlike most U.S. schools that teach drawing and painting as distinct disciplines confined to different class blocks. Our homework is to draw and paint whatever we like, so there is lots of space for artistic independence and exploration.