08/18/2026
🇫🇷 A Trusted Friend In Paris
Bonjour,
Strolling the streets of Montmatre reminded me that art isn’t confined to museums and can come in various ways of expression.
This neighborhood once inspired the likes of Van Gogh, Picasso and Renoir as today new artists continue painting in the streets much as they have for generations! New artists continue that tradition…some with brushes, some with spray paint and some with their voice, each method making us feel something different individually…isn’t that one of the purposes of art and artistic expression?
Walking through the streets of Montmatre and Paris made me stop and reflect on the classical Parisian art in the grand museums we have come to know through books in addition to the contemporary artistic expressions on neighborhood walls, tucked into quiet alley ways and hiding in plain sight!
Some of the street art stopped me in my tracks! The expressive “Face Your Demons” mural was one of those creations… it wasn’t cheerful, it wasn’t as decorative as some, but yet it made me stop and wonder the artist’s message intent! This artist’s work was definitely successful in making me stop and feel something!
The square in Montmartre, the Place du Tertre, is where artists gather setting up easels, painting, as I captured this artist painting a creation. It is always enjoyable watching artists sketching portraits for visitors…they really are talented. The spaces in this small area are strictly regulated enabling licensed artists a space to sketch, paint and sell their work on site. Maybe one day I’ll be able to purchase one of these creative pieces!
One of my favorite discoveries was a black silhouette of a couple standing beneath a floating umbrella with no elaborate colors, no face details, just a simple image that told me a story…love, hope, protection as well as connection. I enjoyed all of this wall art as I lingered over one of my favorite places to have frites and a glass of Sancerre!
Unlike paintings in museums, street art often disappears quickly even from week to week…thus my camera helps me document moments and memories that may never exist again.
If I could offer only one tip of advice as you discover Paris and points beyond is…put the map down, forget your agenda for an hour or two, because you never know what is to be unexpectedly found around the next corner! Keeping my eyes open walking down the cobblestone side streets, looking up and down, has yet to disappoint me and given me some of my most memorable experiences ever! The unexpected seems to always put a smile on my face as I experience some of my most favorite parts of this remarkable city!
You will never know what story you may discover…as always, please share this “blog “ for those who plan to visit Paris soon or just dreaming of one day! I would appreciate your feedback and if there is any topic you would like to discuss more about, I’m all ears!
Until next week,
A Trusted Friend In Paris,
Susan
