ART JOURNEYS
Provence with Friends
Art, Culture & Elegance in the South of France
Immerse yourself in modern and contemporary art, gastronomy, and cultural sophistication across Provence and the French Riviera, thoughtfully curated and led exclusively by women, for women.
A Journey Like No Other with an Intimate Circle of Women
Embark on a bespoke art journey through Southern France, thoughtfully curated for women by art historians to offer an unparalleled exploration of art, culture and gastronomy. From the sun-drenched shores of the French Riviera to the timeless charm of Provence, this exclusive adventure is designed for women who cherish meaningful connections with art, culture and each other.
Discover hidden treasures like the FAMM (Femme Artistes Mougins Museum), the first and only museum in Europe solely dedicated to women artists, where you’ll enjoy a special behind-the-scenes experience with curators. Delight in the modern masterpieces at the Fondation Maeght, the bold contemporary works at LUMA Arles, the stunning Picasso museum in Antibes, and the optical wonders of the Fondation Vasarely. Stroll through the renowned antiques market in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, savor the delicious flavors of the Provençal Market in Antibes, sip fine wines in the stunning sculpture gardens of Château La Coste and uncover Marseille’s dynamic street art scene.
Limited to an intimate group, this journey ensures personalized attention and the opportunity to form lasting bonds with like-minded women. With expert guidance at every turn, you'll experience the richness of Provence and the French Riviera like never before—a celebration of art history, women and culture designed to inspire you and leave you with lasting friendships and memories.
A Rare Glimpse Behind the Scenes
One of the most exceptional aspects of this journey is the exclusive access it offers to curators and the evolving world of modern and contemporary art. In Mougins, you’ll enjoy a private, behind-the-scenes visit of FAMM (Femme Artistes Mougins Museum), the first and only museum in Europe solely dedicated to women artists. Led by Lauren Jimerson and the museum's curatorial team, this intimate experience provides a unique window into the museum’s vision and the remarkable collection spanning Impressionism to contemporary art. With nearly 100 works by 90 internationally acclaimed female artists—such as Berthe Morisot, Frida Kahlo, Lee Krasner and Jenny Saville—FAMM repositions women at the forefront of art history. This rare, in-depth exploration will expand your knowledge and appreciation of women artists and offer insights few have the privilege to experience.
In the heart of Aix-en-Provence, immerse yourself in the world of Cézanne at the Musée Granet, where his revolutionary approach to form and color reshaped the course of modern art. From there, step into the mesmerizing universe of optical illusions and kinetic compositions at the Fondation Vasarely, a bold architectural masterpiece celebrating the legacy of Victor Vasarely. The journey continues to Arles, where the cutting-edge LUMA Arles—housed in a striking Frank Gehry-designed tower—redefines the boundaries of contemporary art, offering thought-provoking installations that challenge and inspire. Amidst Arles’ Roman ruins, ancient amphitheaters, and cobblestone streets that Vincent Van Gogh once wandered, history and modernity intertwine, creating an atmosphere both reflective and forward-looking.
Provence’s natural beauty meets contemporary creativity at Château La Coste, a working vineyard transformed into an open-air gallery where world-renowned artists and architects have left their mark. Here, stroll among sculptures by the likes of Louise Bourgeois and Ai Weiwei, set against the backdrop of sun-drenched vines and rolling hills. Enjoy a guided exploration of the estate’s art and architecture, followed by a tasting of its acclaimed wines—a perfect synthesis of aesthetic and sensory pleasure. This portion of the journey invites you to experience Provence not just as a picturesque landscape, but as a living canvas where the past and present converge through art, architecture, and the rhythms of everyday life.
Expert Guidance by Engaging Art Historians, Licensed Guides & Culture Experts
Your journey will be designed and led by Lauren Jimerson, who will be accompanying you throughout this bespoke art journey. Lauren, alongside a cadre of distinguished art historians, licensed guides, curators and culture experts, ensures an illuminating and enriching experience from start to finish.
A Celebration of Provençal Markets and Artisanal Traditions
Throughout this journey, you'll experience the sensory delights of Provence’s most captivating markets, where art, culture, and daily life converge. In Antibes, wander through the bustling Provençal Market, a feast for the senses with its colorful stalls overflowing with local produce, fragrant herbs, artisan cheeses, and handcrafted goods. As you stroll through the charming streets of Old Town Antibes, you’ll discover hidden ateliers and boutiques showcasing the work of local artisans, from pottery to textiles. In Aix-en-Provence, the lively market scene spills into elegant squares, offering everything from vibrant flowers and fresh olives to beautifully crafted Provençal fabrics—a true reflection of the region’s rich heritage and culinary traditions.
No exploration of Provence would be complete without a visit to L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, renowned for its world-class antiques market. On market days, the town transforms into a treasure trove for collectors and enthusiasts, with stalls brimming with vintage finds, rare books, and decorative objects that tell stories of the past. Then in Marseille, the journey takes on a contemporary twist as you delve into the city’s dynamic street life. Through its bold street art, eclectic shops, and multicultural influences, the spirit of Marseille comes alive as a living market of ideas, flavors, and artistic expression woven into the fabric of the city.
Not a fan of big group tours? Neither are we.
Art with Friends journeys offer a level of intimacy and connection you simply won’t find anywhere else!
An Opulent Exploration of Art with Authentic Connections
This journey is a celebration of art, culture, and camaraderie, designed exclusively for a close-knit community of seven women. Each moment has been thoughtfully curated to provide not only access to iconic works of art but also opportunities to forge meaningful connections with like-minded travelers. From Michelin-starred dining to behind-the-scenes tours and immersive artisanal experiences, every detail is imbued with a sense of luxury, elegance and care.
Join us for this profound and meaningful adventure with a community of like-minded female travelers and discover the stories, sights and sensations that make this voyage an utterly unique exploration of Provence's artistic treasures.
A glimpse of a past journey, Art with Friends in Berlin, October 2024
Provence with Friends:
Art, Culture & Elegance in the South of France
Select Your Journey:
September Journey
September 12–21, 2025
October Journey
October 6-15, 2025
Paris Encore
An Exclusive Art & Culture Add-On
September 22-24, 2025
October 16-18
Highlights of the journey
Chagall
Museum
behind the scenes
Michelin Star
Dining
Château La Coste: Contemporary Art & Wine Tasting
Antiques Market, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue
Modern Masters at Fondation Maeght
Guided Visit of Markets
in Antibes & Aix en Provence
Traditional Provencal
culinary class
FAMM: Women Artists Museum
Guided Visit,
Matisse Museum,
Nice
Frank Gehry's LUMA Arles: Contemporary Art Hub
Roman Ruins & Van Gogh's Legacy in Arles
Musée Granet: Cézanne’s Legacy, Aix-en-Provence
Street Art Tour, Marseille
..and more!
Led by Women, For Women
MEET YOUR HOSTS
Lauren Jimerson, PhD
Art Historian and licensed French Guide
Founder of Art with Friends, Lauren Jimerson is an art historian specializing in modern women artists. She holds a PhD from Rutgers University, an MA from the Courtauld Institute, and a BA from Cornell University. Her research has benefited from grants including a Fulbright fellowship. She is the author of the recently published book, Painting Her Pleasure: Three Women Artists and the Nude in Avant-Garde Paris, released by Manchester University Press in 2023. Licensed as a French National Guide, Lauren has fifteen years of experience leading scholarly tours in Paris, Rome, and beyond.
Andrea Sunderland
Photographer & Guest Experience Host
Andrea is a people-loving artist who combines her passion for photography with her talent for making others feel comfortable and confident. Specializing in portrait and event photography, she naturally connects with her subjects to capture authentic moments, ensuring they look and feel their best. Andrea’s eye for detail extends to all her work, whether photographing people or spaces, and she thoughtfully uses light and composition to bring out the beauty in every subject. With a background in art history, studio art, and nearly a decade in film and television production, she brings a well-rounded perspective to every project.
What is FAMM? Watch Lauren Jimerson Discuss Europe’s First Museum Dedicated to Women Artists on France 24 with TV Host Genie Godula
WHY TRAVEL WITH US?
Crafted Exclusively for Women, by Women
Our journey is a celebration of women's history and contributions to the arts, led by women. Unlike many tours that cater to women but aren't guided by women our journey stands apart. Moreover, we delve into women's historical or artistic contributions all along the way. We elevate the experience by highlighting influential women artists, designers, and historians at each destination. This trip is designed by expert female art historians who are not only deeply knowledgeable but also passionate about creating a platform to showcase and discuss women's roles in art and culture.
Luxurious Accommodation
Bond with fellow guests in carefully curated hotels that embody elegance, history, and comfort—each chosen for its exceptional service, prime location, and distinctive character. More than just a place to rest, they serve as welcoming spaces for connection, reflection, and relaxation. Whether sipping a cocktail on a rooftop terrace overlooking the Mediterranean or unwinding in a serene spa surrounded by lush gardens, you’ll find moments to recharge and connect with fellow travelers. To prioritize flexibility and comfort, hotel costs are excluded from the package price, allowing for late cancellations when needed. Each hotel has been selected for its refined ambiance, top-tier customer service, and modern conveniences, with many newly built or thoughtfully renovated to ensure a pristine, health-conscious environment. These accommodations enhance the journey—offering a seamless blend of sophistication, tranquility, and shared experience.
Art with Friends Journeys Shared
Thank you for crafting such a remarkable journey that I will cherish forever. It was a perfect blend of beauty, tranquility, and seamless travel.
The trip was nothing short of nine days of heaven. The experience was absolutely gorgeous and so wonderfully different from anything I've experienced before. Every moment was amazing, and I can't thank you enough for creating such a unique and exceptional experience. It truly felt like I was in heaven.
Julie
Choose Your Journey:
Dates: September 12–21 | October 6-15, 2025
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Duration: 10 Days
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Destination: Antibes, Aix-en-Provence, Arles, Avignon, Cannes, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Marseille, Mougins, Nice, Saint-Paul-de-Vence
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Immerse yourself in a luxurious cultural journey through the South of France, guided by seasoned art historians and designed exclusively for a close-knit community of women. Experience private access to world-renowned museums, stroll through charming Provençal markets, and savor Michelin-starred dining—all while forging meaningful connections with like-minded women.
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From the modern masterpieces at LUMA Arles and the bold works at Fondation Vasarely to the intimate curatorial tour at FAMM, Europe’s first museum dedicated solely to women artists, this journey offers unparalleled access to some of France’s most captivating art and cultural landmarks. Each destination is thoughtfully curated to combine premium experiences with intellectual enrichment and authentic connection with fellow art friends.
Arrival & Departure Information September Journey
Arrival: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) – September 11* (depart U.S. on September 10 to account for overnight travel)
Departure: Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) – September 21
*We recommend arriving on September 11 for a smoother transition and time to settle in before the journey officially begins on September 12.
Arrival & Departure Information October Journey
Arrival: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) – October 5* (depart U.S. on October 4 to account for overnight travel)
Departure: Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) – October 15
*We recommend arriving on October 5 for a smoother transition and time to settle in before the journey officially begins on October 6.
Paris Encore: An Exclusive Art & Culture Add-On
Dates: September 22-24, 2025 | October 16-18, 2025
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Duration: 3 Days
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Destination: Paris
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Extend your travels with an immersive 3-day art and culture add-on in Paris, featuring expertly guided tours of the city’s premier museums and special exhibitions, including at Musée d'Orsay, Fondation Louis Vuitton, Musée Carnavalet, and Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris. Additionally, we'll meet curators for a private guided visit at the stunning Musée Cognacq-Jay in the Marais. Led by art historian and licensed French guide Lauren Jimerson, this enriching experience offers a deeper exploration of Paris’s dynamic art, culture, and fashion scene, making it the perfect complement to your main journey.
Why Book the Paris Encore?
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Lauren will unlock exclusive experiences in Paris that you’d never discover on your own! Gain insider access to Paris’s art and culture with a personalized touch, meet local cultural experts and savor a meal at the prestigious Cercle Suédois, an exclusive private members' club—just one of many extraordinary moments awaiting you.
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A first-class train ticket from Aix-en-Provence to Paris is included, ensuring a smooth and comfortable transition.
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This add-on can be seamlessly included after the South of France journey.
Why Choose Art with Friends?
Unparalleled Expertise and Exclusivity: Art with Friends offers an exceptional opportunity to explore art, culture and history in an intimate, women-focused setting led by expert art historians. With bespoke itineraries and small groups, this journey fosters personal growth and lasting connections, empowering women through the transformative power of art and travel.
Unlike traditional group tours, this experience is designed exclusively for women, creating a space to explore new places while encouraging intellectual development, meaningful friendships, and lifelong memories. Each journey is unique and carefully curated to combine premium destinations, expert guidance and a like-minded community of art lovers.
Limited Availability
Request an invitation today!
Spaces are limited to ensure an intimate and personalized experience. Don’t miss your chance to explore the wonders of Provence and the French Riviera through a curated lens of art history, all within a supportive circle of like-minded women.
A non-refundable deposit of $500 is due at the time of booking, with full payment required two months before the journey's start date. We understand the unpredictable nature of today’s world and have thoughtfully designed a flexible cancellation policy to accommodate your needs. Click here to read more.
Request an Invitation
Opening the books...
Spaces are extremely limited, and past journeys have sold out quickly. To ensure a personalized, high-quality experience, this journey is by invitation only. How to request an invitation:
Step 1: Schedule a relaxed, no-pressure call with Lauren to learn more about this extraordinary journey. On this call, you'll hear all the details firsthand, ask questions, and determine if this journey is the right fit for you. Pricing and availability will be shared during the call.