Béatrice Roche Gardies, a painter from Chartres, France, was practically born into the world of aviation. As the mother, sister, niece, and sister-in-law of pilots, she has had the privilege of flying since her earliest years. This exposure to what she describes as "a small world of passionate individuals" quickly captivated her, leading her to apply in 2011 for the prestigious title of "painter of the air."
This purely honorary title is awarded to artists who dedicate a significant portion of their talent to aeronautics and space. The artists work directly with the Center for Aerospace Strategic Studies of the French Air and Space Force (CESA) and, thanks to their status as war correspondents during missions, can access air bases for their work. For Roche Gardies, this has provided memorable experiences, including a mission at Air Base 367 and the Salvation Islands in French Guiana.
During her time observing military personnel with her artist's eye, Roche Gardies witnesses how much they love their profession, expressing happiness and pride in their work. Most importantly, she notes how many of them articulate "everything the military has brought to their lives." A graduate of the National School of Decorative Arts in Paris, she studied for seven years under painter Philippe Lejeune, brother of Professor Jérôme Lejeune and founder of the Étampes school.
Driven by patriotism, Roche Gardies puts her brushes and talent at the service of the military. "The painters of the air and space are part of the air force's ambassadors, featured in catalogs but little known," explains the artist, who also serves as president of the association of air painters. Every two years, these painters exhibit their latest creations at the Air and Space Museum at Le Bourget, drawing inspiration from the history of the air and space force, its exploits, legendary aircraft and figures, as well as current events, operational engagements, and daily life on bases.
Among the numerous works exhibited this year, Roche Gardies presents two pieces that hold special significance. One is a portrait that is particularly close to her heart, featuring Valérie André, whom she had "the chance to meet." André is a surgeon, pilot, paratrooper, resistance fighter, and the first female general in the French Army, as well as the most decorated military woman in the world. Creating this portrait presented a unique challenge for the artist, as it was her first aerosol painting, requiring fourteen colors and corresponding stencils. "The painting only satisfied me on the sixth version," she confesses, "but the challenge was worth it!"
With characteristic enthusiasm, the painter presents her second exhibited work, titled "OPEX" (External Operations). She works either from live subjects or photographs, and in this case, her artistic work involves composing and painting a creation that mixes several aircraft photos. "The scene must be believable in both lighting and spatial geometry, and the planes shouldn't look like they're about to crash into each other!" she smiles. "It's real artistic skill – I don't use AI."
What she appreciates most about this mission is "making people love France through my paintings and building connections between the military and the nation," responds the artist who wants to "share respect for the armed forces that defend us." Beyond this, she enjoys "showing the poetry that can be found in civil and military aeronautics." She speaks endlessly about her travels and the many faces she has encountered, depicting them with great sensitivity.
As a special note for readers, among the forty artists to admire at this 14th Official Salon of Air and Space Painters at Le Bourget, running until October 31st, they will recognize a familiar drawing style. Ixène, also a painter of the air and space, will be exhibiting his works alongside Roche Gardies and the other distinguished artists in this prestigious exhibition.
