Chers tous,
I am writing to you from WA,
where spring is in full swing and the spring flowers are in full bloom, a symphony
of colours thanks to broom plants, heather, wattles, white clematis and
banksia.
Last December, I suggested that
we use our ‘French Corner’ to present biographies of our members from time to
time, the first being that of Brigitte Leroy. This month you'll find Mike's
(Michael Warren) biography, full of interest and surprises.
It's happening in September! The Paralympic Games from 28 August to 8
September.
The name of the Paris 2024 mascot
is Olympic Phryge, based on the traditional small Phrygian hats that the
mascots are shaped after. The Phrygian caps, the Paris 2024 Olympic and
Paralympic mascots, have been a symbol of freedom throughout French history.
They are a common reference for French people, including in the world of art
(as a metaphor for freedom) and as a symbol of the Republic in French
institutions. Phrygian caps can be seen sitting atop the head of the iconic
figure Marianne in every town hall and even feature on everyday objects in
France such as coins and stamps. They are also an international symbol of
liberty worn by freed slaves in Roman times and appearing on different emblems
in North and South America. Also known as the liberty cap, the Phrygian cap has
become one of the symbols of the French Republic.
If you're planning a trip to
France or Europe in September, did you know that the European Heritage Days are
being held for the 39th time on 17 and 18 September? These days give numbers of
visitors, from France and abroad, access to national monuments that are usually
closed to the public, allowing them to enjoy unusual visits and discover the
heritage of more than 50 countries. Important fact: visits organised as part of
Heritage Days are free of charge.
A major painting by Paul Gauguin
(Paris, 1848 - Hiva Oa, 1903) has been acquired by the National Gallery of Australia
in Canberra. The work acquired is The Blue Roof, also known as The Farm at
Pouldu (Brittany), painted in 1890. Currently, The Blue Roof, which is the
first painting by the artist to enter an Australian public collection, is on
display as part of the major exhibition The World of Gauguin: Tōna Iho, Tōna Ao
(29 Jun - 7 Oct 2024). The exhibition, held at the National Gallery of
Australia, traces Gauguin's artistic journey and his travels around the world,
from his Impressionist beginnings in 1873 to his final destination in French
Polynesia.
I look forward to seeing you on
25 September for our AGM and a film that many of you are sure to enjoy.
A bientôt!
Sylvie
