The 110th edition of the Tour de France departs Bilbao, Spain on Saturday, July 1, 2023. A very hilly course and three days in the Basque region of Spain before returning to French soil. Ending three weeks later with a traditional sprint finish in Paris on the Avenue des Champs-Élysées.
As I have since 2013 – I’ve created a new Tour de France Cycling Art Print that is available HERE
This years version, like many, takes into account the start location of the race, Pays Basque. So since I own a very cool beret from the Basque region of the Pyrenees, I started there, with a hat.
And since a very special and favorite artist of mine, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec is from the area (on the French side in the Pyrenees) I added a nod to his work in the form of a red scarf over the shoulder of the yellow jersey. How many people will make the very obscure connection? I don’t know, who cares it looks cool and very French so I did it. And lastly since Julian Alaphilippe is one of my very favorite contemporary cyclists, I kinda used his face – voila!
I love the history, drama and tradition of the Tour. The racing is always amazing. The route is spectacular and there is really no substitute for being there on the side of the road. If you ever get a chance, jump at it and go! Sadly I won’t make it again this year but will rely on the memories of fifty days in France following the three Tours. With my good friend Keith, aka Birdman, watching each day while I draw, I’m sure it will be great as usual.
Be sure to follow on social media everyday during the 21 Days of Cycling Art. I’ll draw, paint, post, sell art and talk with anyone that wants to talk TDF!
Vive Le Tour!!
