Villa Catherine

“Catherine,” breathed the wind, rustling the leaves of the trees near Villa Catherine. It’s a whisper of a name, echoing the spirit of a remarkable artist, Catherine Marguerite Villagran. Here at Villa Catherine, in Bois-Colombes, we’re far from the bustling streets of Paris where she was born. Yet, her Parisian roots are part of her rich tapestry of experiences, woven with threads from across the globe. Villa Catherine, a testament to her creative spirit, is not where she lived, but rather where her name finds a home. Catherine’s journey took her across Europe, Africa, the South Pacific, and America. In 1982, a Peugeot 504 carried her across the Sahara, a journey that reshaped her understanding of the world. This experience ignited a spark, leading her to Ouagadougou and eventually back to the United States. It was there, after selling her car for passage, that the concept of a globalized world truly resonated with her. This global perspective infused her art, inspired by the kaleidoscope of colors, cultures, and natural wonders she encountered. Myths and legends danced with her dreams, adding a touch of magic to her canvases. Catherine’s artistic journey led her to San Francisco State University, where she studied film. Her talents found expression in costume design, dressing iconic figures like Michael Jackson, M.C. Hammer, and Linda Ronstadt. Even Hollywood stars like Michael J. Fox and Kristine Scott-Thomas donned her creations. But her artistic heart yearned for more. Upon meeting her husband, Orlando, a graphic designer, Catherine’s passion for painting ignited. It was a flame that burned brightly, leading her to Otis College of Art and Design and later to Santa Monica College, where she honed her skills in etching and sculpture. In 1997, at the Lunaria Gallery, seven of her paintings found new homes in a mere three hours. This marked the beginning of a series of successful exhibitions. Villa Catherine, though not a physical representation of her art, stands as a tribute to her name and her journey. Her art continued to flourish, earning her the 2000 National Arts Association Award for her photo etching, “Montamalpais.” Catherine embraced teaching, sharing her passion with students in urban neighborhoods, from South Central Los Angeles to Overtown in Miami. Eventually, she returned to California, where she imparted her knowledge at Palisades Charter High School. Villa Catherine, though not her home, is a quiet echo of a name that resonates with creativity, global exploration, and a dedication to art. It’s a reminder that art can bloom anywhere, from the vibrant streets of Paris to the quiet corners of Bois-Colombes.