Paris Stories: Inspiration from a Paris Icon

On Rue Jacob in the 6ème arrondissement of Paris lives the most amazing man. Rue Jacob is what one imagines when conjuring up a Parisian street. It is a scene from an impressionist painting with strolling pedestrians and bustling cafés with french waiters in white aprons. The street houses art galleries, antique shops, art deco and jewelry boutiques and patisseries display their own works of art — chocolate tarts, milles-feuilles, petits fours, macarons and madeleines displayed like works of art.  Rue Jacob is where Benjamin Franklin John Jay and John Adams signed the Treaty of Paris in 1783.

Rue Jacob is also where the 91 year old poet and painter Bernard Colin lives. 

I first met Bernard a few years ago when my french teacher, who is also his goddaughter, invited me to dinner at his apartment. A french course that I was taking in Paris happened to take place during the jewish holidays and they did not want me to be alone. 

Upon entering his apartment on the charming Rue Jacob, I was struck by the lively and colorful murals on some of the walls. However, upon closer inspection, I discovered that the walls were not murals at all, but shelves of books with their spines and covers painted by Bernard! The other walls were filled with lively and colorful art painted by Bernard and Pierre Bettencourt, the father of my french teacher. 

I saw Bernard for the first time as he walked down the apartment’s winding iron staircase. His kindness, humour and artistic spirit were immediately evident. It was such a joy to meet such a creative and talented soul. When we shook hands, I felt like I had met a kindred spirit. 

Observing the the way he lived his life had a profound impact on me. He gave me the inspiration and permission I needed to be freer about my life’s passions and more passionate about my life.