A Selection Of Photos From France

Marc Christensen • August 8, 2019

A Cathedral, An Abbey, The Coast...And A Lonely Old Boat

Curator's Note:

When Marc sent these to me I had a choice - post them one at a time over weeks or months, or all at once. Each has its story, they are all quite different, and so stringing these out made a good deal of sense. But in the end I couldn't wait to share them with you as soon as possible.

Marc's photos are so wonderful, but what makes them even more meaningful is his short narrative, explaining each photo and why it was important to take and then to share. Images such as these are profound not only because of the beauty of the photo itself, but also because of what it represents and how it connects with people. As you might guess, a description about a boat which appeals to the photographer "...perhaps because, like me, it is old and worn but contented 'at anchor'" conveys something to me, and something unique for each observer/reader.

What do these pictures represent to you?

A Cathedral, An Abbey, A Coast...And A Lonely Old Boat

By Marc Christensen

The first is of the cathedral in Amiens, France. It is the largest in France - even bigger than Notre Dame de Paris - soaring almost 140 feet inside. Say what one wants about the Middle Ages - this cathedral was built in the 13th century - but it was a time when enormous resources were devoted to places of worship. And, with this majestic ceiling, one cannot help having the feeling of being lifted towards heaven. The artwork inside is superb as well.

The second is of a lonely old boat I took in Pampoil, France. It just has a air of solitude and peace that appeals to me - perhaps because, like me, it is old and worn but contented "at anchor."

The third is of Brantome Abbey in Brantome, France. I was taken by the reflection in the river and the stalwart appearance of the building that has endured many centuries.

The fourth is from the Rose Granite Coast in Brittany, France. It is a gentle and tranquil coast line that welcomes a good sit and stare and the beautiful rocks, ocean and wildflowers. Many may not know this but Brittany is strongly Celtic and the native language spoken there is very similar to Welsh. Celts once ruled Europe and their culture stuck here, in Wales, Ireland and parts of Scotland. It is distinctly not French though most people today do speak French yet their resides a strong streak of independence and pride in being "Bretagne.