Running an artistic course in Dordogne

THE landscape and villages of the Dordogne are an inspiration for many artists but for one businesswoman they are key to her plans.

Joanne Quittner, from London, has two gîtes just outside Villefranche du Perigord and summer bookings had been a success.

But Joanne was conscious that the season was short and began looking for something a little different to offer potential clients of La Borie du Four.

“Summer bookings are no problem to get but that means you are missing out on the beautiful weather of early summer and autumn,” said Joanne.

“So I thought about offering art courses in April and September and when a friend of a friend said they knew an artist, we looked at setting up the courses.

“And with the grounds around La Borie and this area offering such fabulous locations people get a chance to try a few different methods.”

A former art lecturer runs the courses and students have the chance to study the villages of Monpazier and Domme, as well as take a trip up the Dordogne river.

Joanne’s own experience is in dressmaking and she brings these qualities to the La Borie that she bought just over three years ago.

“The previous owners lived in one side and let the other so when I bought it, it was in good condition and I just wanted to put my own stamp on it,” Joanne said.

“Luckily I have a local lady who has helped me tremendously with getting builders and sorting out paperwork as there is always something to do.”

With around 25 acres of grounds people can always stroll off into the woods for a relaxing break, but at the moment they would have to watch out for Joanne.
She is in training for this year’s London Marathon.

“In the morning I’m off out for a run to keep me in training for the marathon which I’m doing to raise money for cancer research,” smiled Joanne.

“And with the woods and tracks around here it makes a change from training in London.”
To visit La Borie du Four, please click here…

Update (28/04/04):
Joanne went on and completed the Flora London Marathon in a time of just over five hours.
To read more about her fund raising, click here...