The weekly market in Olhao is a feast for the eyes and once again just minutes from the School. It is spread along the water front next to the two large Market Halls that are open every day. 
It is bustling with energy and activity. Farmers and people with small holdings come in from many different places to sell their wares. It was here that I purchased the calla lilies for 2 euro! One stem would cost that and much or more in London….
This market provides seasonal eating from sea and land – and everything displayed is of excellent quality. 
Given the crowds, we split up as a group and sketch, or take photographs as we please. I love to observe the local people. Ideal for portrait painters.
Several of the group happily sketching – with an interested observer.
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I missed a wonderful band this year, but remember so well the music and these dancers from last year.
This is a place that feeds all the senses, including taste. Some of the goods on offer are simply delicious including the local honey.
The Portugese custard tarts, are to die for…….once tried, never forgotten🙂 The custard is in a creme brûlée like consistency, caramelised in a puff pastry case.
I really enjoy that all the different elements are joined together in one big celebration of life. There are many sellers of flowers, and to see them in front of the Lagoon with boats behind provides a wonderful contrast.
As I mentioned earlier, Olhao is the largest fishing port on the Algarve. What a great place to view the fruits of the sea. It brings an awareness of how precious Mother Nature’s bounty is both from sea and land.
Storks play an important part of life in Olhao….and can be seen nesting on top of the church and other high places.
I took this photograph on the walk from the market.
After a lovely morning, it’s lunch at 7 imeio wine bar where the food and service are superb. David (AKA Bazil) owns this establishment – one I highly recommend.
After lunch a two hour free period and more painting, and then a another excellent evening meal at O Bote.
Tomorrow, our visit to the beautiful Island of Armona.
The magical hummingbirds were clearly in residence.
A Bientôt
My Life as an Artist (2) 
Looks like a wonderful place, both to study, and to find inspiration. I am sure that the young lady who observed, went home with some good ideas on how best to express herself.
I am back there end of June and can’t wait:)x
Great post and wonderful images.
Thank you, Peter…hope all is well in your camp. xx
Reblogged this on People and Places.
Thanks again for this series of interesting posts 🙂 I think I may have missed one. I’ll have to go back through my reader and check.
There are five posts in the series..beginning on Monday and finishing today….again thank you so much for reading and re blogging… Hope you have a lovely weekend. Janet:)
I’ll make sure to find the last one too 🙂 Have a wonderful weekend as well.
Amazing photos. Love that water painting at the end.
Thank you, Kev….have a lovely weekend:)
And to you!
Wonderful photos and beautiful painting x
Thank you so much:)
Beautiful photos…so colorful…Your hummingbirds are truly magical!
I really hate to repeat myself, but this place is so beautiful… it’s like a fantasy. Mega-hugs. 😀
Thank you dear Teagan….I think you would love it. A great place for writers and well as painters:) Hoping all is well with you and that you are creating beautiful work. Looking forward to new posts. Janet:)x
A lovely inspired painting completes this lovely post! 🙂
Thank you, Gil:)x
What a vivid, vibrant post, I love the sheer variety of everything…..it does look like a beautiful, inspiring place. I did enjoy this this.xxx
Thank you so much, Dina….this is a place you would love:)xxx