It all started with an idea…a present for a milestone anniversary…

I put my ideas to paper, using my own memories of this beautiful place, as well as vintage posters and postcards of Paris as my inspiration.

I decided on this view…a romantic scene, for a young couple in love.

I wanted to make it a little grander…so I pulled out a 12 x 24 inch stretched canvas, just waiting for a story to be told on it. I painted the whole thing, front and sides, with black gesso. Twice. And then I painted in the area around the tower with acrylic paint. I left the black areas, for the most part, untouched. And for the background, I wanted a bit of the black to show through.

I added a few more romantic details, a light wax finish on top, and called it FINI!

“Je T’aime” – a special painting for a special couple, my niece and her husband. Their 10th anniversary will be spent at the Eiffel Tower, much like our 20th was. They will stand at the base of it, in awe…yes, much like we did.

I wish them a beautiful and romantic time, in one of the most beautiful cities on earth.  Happy Anniversary, to you both!