The villages and countryside of Vals de Saintonge inspire creativity.
The exceptional hours of sunlight, the magnificent white stone made golden by the special light of the region, the caress of water on the banks of the Charente or its tributary the Boutonne … this décor breathes life into creative energy.
Inspiring towns and villages
The village of Saint-Savinien-sur-Charente is not just a mix of stone and water (“Village de Pierres et d’Eau”) but also of the arts (“Ville et Métiers d’Art”), attracting numerous artists and craftspeople …. Meet them as you stroll round this characterful little town – in a gallery or workshop as you turn a corner, at the Arts Centre “Cargo Bleu” in the former protestant church, a place of contemporary expression and occasionally of artistic events.
Close by at the “Lapidiales” in Port d’Envaux, sculptors from across the world have undertaken open air collective artworks.
Known as “One of the best Detours in France”, Saint-Jean-d’Angély is home to the Chapelle des Bénédectines, an exhibition centre offering an eclectic programme that enables the visitor to reflect on creativity. The Cordeliers Museum and the media library at the Abbaye Royale give particular focus to creativity.
Art is all around
At the Château de Dampierre-sur- Boutonne and the Château de Neuvicq, art exhibitions are held regularly throughout the high season.
The “Garden of Peace” in Matha set in a wooded park has works by international artists on permanent display on the theme of peace; they invite the visitor to meditate and reflect on the essential values of humanity.
“The Garden of Gabriel” at Nantillé is home to an unusual collection of poetic sculptures realised by Gabriel Albert, a self-taught artist “inspired by the road’s edge”.
“The Garden of Romanesque Sculpture” in Lozay reproduces the rich reliefs of Romanesque churches of the region and brings out the talent of these Middle Ages sculptors. Romanesque churches are part of the timeless cultural and artistic wealth of the Vals de Saintonge.
Artistic events
The dynamism of the associations and the annual salons of amateur painters reveal real talent and the strength of local creativity.
Painters’ Days in the streets or in exceptional surroundings, displays in the Tourism Offices, time for creativity in associations, meetings with artists “at home”, the biennial patchwork festival “Fil en fête” … so many creative and artistic initiatives that provoke healthy competition.
More information from the Tourism Offices where you find out about the current arts programme.
Many craftspeople and creatives having made their home of Vals de Saintonge also offer workshops where young and old can learn and express their talents. Make sure you book!
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