pretending to be an artist - in Trelex, Switzerland

I am in Trelex, near Geneva, for artist residency. I feel very lucky to be here.

I have never felt less like an artist in my life.

I am surrounded by paint, crayons, paper, white boards, numerous tools, lamps and tables, all waiting for me to do something.

I don't know what to do.

So far I have been for a walk, and been shopping for some food.

The village is very small, and has no shop on Sunday, Monday or Tuesday. It is also very floral and very tidy.

It has its own bears and some bins that encourage dog owners to be tidy too.

My desk has the most beautiful view that I could wish for.

I sit overlooking the Jura, listening to the church bell and the sound of lawn mowers and swifts.

So far removed from suburban life.

Nearby is the small town of Nyon, accessible by train.

 The train is two carriages, and if you wish to climb aboard, or get off, you need to treat it like a bus, and press the button.

I found a supermarket, one cone ( King Cone) and Miss Fromage.

I also got asked by several Americans ( in French) where the Roman columns were, and whether they could walk to them. I assured them that they were nearby, and of course they could walk. I have no idea where they are, but as they were standing at the entrance to the Roman Museum, they can't have been far away.

Caesar in Nyon

King Cone

Miss Emmental is the winner of Miss Fromage.

I am not sure what the criteria are, but can only wonder why she is not Mademoiselle Fromage, given that we are in French speaking Switzerland.

Miss Fromage

The studio comes with a dog. He is very friendly.

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I went shopping for scourers amongst other things. I had forgotten how much dirt some other people can tolerate.

Food is expensive beyond belief. I will be living on bread and water. I have seen no sign of any alcohol since arrived.

So, having given up being a student, I am now living like a student, and will soon have to justify my presence here.

I will go walking and see what I can find.

I have a new toy.

Rode microphone

It is a microphone that looks like a dead beaver. It will hopefully deal with wind, and let me record birdsong and other local sounds. I plan to make a movie.

Not a disaster movie or a rom com. Just a few pictures and sounds to sum up this place once I have got the measure of it.

I'll keep you posted.

Got to go and eat my bread now.


If you are interested to know more about the residency click here