The Allure and Artistic Air of Arles
Jessica K, Lauren, and Victoria, captivated in Arles. First cover photo by Rachel Schuttler.
As our group fixed our eyes on the timeless landscape of Arles, we were filled with an inspiration similar to Van Gogh’s, which moved him to paint “Starry Night.” The first century Roman architecture that hosted up to 20,000 people is located right in the city center and towered over us as we marveled at its ancient stone detail. Upon first sight of the weathered interior of the Roman amphitheatre, history came to life. The scene of gallant gladiators and fierce bullfights danced in front of us. The streets lead to different mysterious corners that guided us through the meandering streets of Arles. The famed ‘yellow café’ stands nestled in a cozy square, just as brilliantly colored as it is in Van Gogh’s “Café at Night”, almost as if time had not touched it; save for the restaurant that now exists as a memento to the artist. A feeling of wonder washed over us as we gazed at the same sights that Vincent Van Gogh himself found such inspiration in. No matter where you look in this beautiful city, inspiration can be found, whether in its squares or simply the colors of its shutters. It is no wonder that Van Gogh created 200 works of art in just over a year here.
