Houston’s Own French Art Garden Takes Root

What: Opening Reception for Claire Basler’s “Jardin Éternel/Eternal Garden.”

Where: Alkusari Stone at The Houston Design Center.

Who: Consul General of France Sujiro Seam and Jane Seam; artist Claire Basler, in from France; gallerist Yvonamor Palix, who curated the international exhibition and brought Basler to Texas, with husband Mark Bayse; charming speakers included architect and designer Anne Breux, PaperCity‘s Catherine D. Anspon, and French author Brigitte Lardier-Cunningham; Alkusari Stone owner Tom Alkusari; Houston Design Center’s Sheri Roane, Fred Baca, and Natalia Blachuta; Texan-French Alliance for the Arts executive director Karine Parker-Lemoyne; and Francophiles and denizens of design including Gillette Burns, Beau Burns, Jennifer Pierce, The French Farm’s Gisele Oriot (who provided a number of the delicacies), Verlyn Bounds, and Oscar Solis Flores.

PC Moment: Basler debuted her exquisite floral paintings in the United States for the first time. The large canvases filled the showroom surrounded by the real-life beautiful blossoms that inspired them. Basler’s paintings transport the viewer to the artist’s profuse garden at her château near Vichy. Consul General Seam welcomed the distinguished crowd as they sipped coffee and teas and enjoyed classic French fare, including macaroons, mini croque monsieurs, and madeleines. (The exhibit will be on view weekdays through Friday, August 5.)