Poya of swiss origin means, as it seems, « mountain pastures climbing «.

It'a a narrative painting giving many informations on summer pastures. Painted by the shepherds for they sharecroppers, it remains naive..

The livestock was thus set for posterity and generally on a usual backing. For that reason, a real particular attention is given to poyas. Respect and superstition are combined. The frame, often marked with religious images, shows it..

In order to keep this prosperity, these pictures are hung on doors or windows, inside or outside according to the region..

Why do I paint poyas in Haute Savoie ?.
May my swiss cousins forgive me, mountain spirit has no border..

The narrative side has mainly inspired me and suits the expression I wished..

The personality of my ancestors has emerged from the rythm of these animal's life, which continues through my children's life..
It is not only a matter of childish nostalgia but a real wish to bring out my roots that drove my inspiration.


Knowing my origins allows me to reach an inner peace.

Through pictures, documents and anecdotes, I'am trying to give my poyas a nature characteristic of my soil ; so my cows are from Abondance.

The picture technique, a fine water painting, in a realist background, emphasizes the nonchalance, heaviness and motion of the animals.
The naive side, characteristic of the poya remains in the picture realisation like in children's stories, warm and respectful.
The wood backing is very important.
I like wood ; it's alive and lets appear time traces ; its roots draw their essence from life's heart.


The cow leaves prints.
She might be sacred, passive, nutritious, crazy or merry, she reflects our society..

Christine POLLIER