The Artistry of Jacques Pépin at Sea

Guests traveling on the Jacques Pépin Signature Sailing from Amsterdam to Lisbon this month will be treated to a special art exhibition, and I am fortunate to be the curator.

My friendship with Jacques began about four decades ago when I started photographing him and his food for a series of cookbooks. I soon realized that not only is Jacques a master in the kitchen; he also has a special talent in the visual arts. I’ve watched him create omelets, souffles and legs of lamb, as well as impressionist landscapes and abstract paintings.

Photo credit: Tom Hopkins

Jacques started painting about 50 years ago with hand-illustrated menus he’d give to dinner hosts when sharing a special evening. A few years ago Jacques donated one of his paintings to a charity auction. He was so sincerely surprised to learn how much of an interest people had in his artwork, which was clearly evident during bidding. We started a website called The Artistry of Jacques Pépin so people could see the collection and own a signed limited edition print at an affordable price. Today I manage Jacques’ Artistry website, and curate his gallery exhibitions.

On September 21, on board Marina, we welcome all guests to join us for an onboard gallery opening reception and cocktail party beginning at 5 pm. The exhibition will be on display for the duration of the cruise, and includes some of Jacques’ whimsical chicken paintings (an homage to the world-famous Bourg-en-Bresse chickens of France), the Menus collection and more. Jacques will be on hand to talk about his love of art, gastronomy and travel.

Visiting small coastal towns along the journey, Jacques enjoys stepping out with other Oceania Cruises chefs to visit little restaurants and outdoor food markets along the way. And he’s always on the lookout for an impromptu game of petanque or boules (similar to bocce.)

Photo credit: Tom Hopkins

Jacques has been cooking for more than 60 years. An Oceania Cruises Signature Sailing is a natural fit that’s not considered work for Jacques; it’s pure joy at sea.

For guests interested in purchasing artwork during the cruise, we will take orders and ship directly to your home so you do not need to carry additional luggage. For those who will not be joining us on this voyage, we welcome you to visit www.jacquespepinart.com to view the collection and read about The Artistry of Jacques Pépin.

Tom Hopkins has been Jacques Pépin’s friend and photographer for nearly 40 years. They have collaborated on many cookbooks and have enjoyed many boules games with good wine, good food, friends and family. Contact Tom through his website at www.tomhopkinsstudio.com.