How long have you been working in the Notre-Dame district? Why did you choose to set up on Rue de Paris?
I opened my studio in December 2005 after spending 6 years in the heart of old Nice, ‘Atelier du Pont Vieux,’ on Rue du Pont Vieux. I was looking for a larger, brighter, and airier space… far from the noise and with a moderate rent!
Frederique Monge in a few words:
I am a painter, and my work is focused on the study of plants. My studio is used for this, and I sell my paintings there. I also do some reproductions of famous paintings and work on commission. Occasionally, I also create portraits. At my studio, one can also find quality reproductions of some of my paintings.
Tell us your favorite product in your range or your shopping advice:
It is difficult to answer this question; I am not a traditional business, and purchasing a painting is often linked to a “coup de coeur” (love at first sight).
Your impressions of your business activity in this new district:
The change of address for my studio was a difficult milestone; there are very few customers from the district, and this part of Rue de Paris is not very frequented since there are practically no shops. Fortunately, I have kept my loyal clientele. However, there is a great potential of available premises which are currently unoccupied… I don’t know why? I hope that the completion of the tramway works will be a breath of fresh air that will revitalize the neighborhood and encourage future merchants to set up shop in the area with diverse activities.
How do you see the future development of your street and activity?
The future of the street will depend on everyone’s willingness to bring life back to this neglected neighborhood. However, I am hopeful for its future.
What improvements would make this neighborhood more pleasant for you and your business? What is it missing?
I think we need to bring back local shops that offer diverse and also artistic activities.
How do you feel about the delay of projects in the city center (Cours Thiers, Tramway, Notre Dame parking)?
It is essential that the planned or ongoing works are completed quickly before the neighborhood becomes devastated. It’s important to make the population want to stroll through the neighborhood again.
Do you feel any sense of insecurity in your street? And what about cleanliness?
I do not feel insecure at all, and I find the neighborhood to be in good condition of cleanliness.
Your favorite highlight or complaint?
I genuinely wish for this neighborhood to evolve; my setup was difficult as my activity is little practiced in this area. It would be a pity if, out of weariness, I am forced to find a more lively neighborhood like this one used to be.
