Local artist Brigitte Fort has opened a mesmerizing new exhibition that celebrates the natural splendor and cultural significance of the rivers flowing through the Couserans region of southwestern France. The striking display showcases Fort's deep connection to these waterways through a diverse collection of paintings, photographs, and multimedia installations that capture both the dynamic movement of water and the serene landscapes it creates.
The exhibition, titled "Rivers of Life: A Journey Through Couserans Waters," features over forty works created during Fort's extensive field studies along the region's most significant rivers, including the Salat, the Lez, and numerous mountain streams that cascade down from the Pyrenees. Fort spent countless hours observing these waterways throughout different seasons, documenting how light, weather, and time of day transform their appearance and character. Her paintings reveal the subtle interplay between rushing currents and still pools, while her photographs capture fleeting moments of mist rising from the water's surface at dawn.
Visitors to the exhibition are immediately drawn to Fort's large-scale oil paintings that dominate the main gallery space. These works demonstrate her mastery of color and texture, using bold brushstrokes to convey the power of spring floods and delicate washes to represent the gentle flow during summer months. One particularly striking piece depicts the confluence of two rivers, where Fort has used contrasting techniques to show how different water sources merge and create new patterns of movement and reflection.
The exhibition also incorporates historical elements that highlight the cultural importance of these rivers to local communities. Fort has included archival photographs showing traditional fishing techniques, old mills that once depended on water power, and bridges that have connected communities for centuries. Interactive displays allow visitors to learn about the ecological significance of these waterways and their role in supporting diverse wildlife populations, from trout and salmon to numerous bird species that depend on riparian habitats.
Fort's artistic journey with these rivers began several years ago when she relocated to the Couserans region and became fascinated by the constant change and movement of water. She explains that each river has its own personality and story to tell, shaped by the geology it passes through and the human history that has unfolded along its banks. Her work aims to capture not just the visual beauty of these waterways but also their emotional and spiritual significance to those who live nearby.
The exhibition runs through the end of the year and has already attracted visitors from across the region who come to see their familiar landscapes interpreted through Fort's unique artistic vision. Many locals have expressed surprise at discovering new aspects of rivers they see every day, while visitors from other areas gain appreciation for the natural treasures of the Couserans region. The display serves both as an artistic achievement and as an environmental reminder of the importance of protecting these precious water resources for future generations.
