On the way to see some wildlife in the Camargue this morning, we stumbled across Chateau d’Avignon (always nice to get a bit of chateau action in on a trip to France. Don’t be fooled by the name though. it’s not in Avignon. or even near to it).
Unfortunately it was closed for re-building work. But…
Instead of just closing up the house, the gardens and outbuildings have been used for an open air art exhibition. Using mostly the same materials and tools as for the rebuilding work, the artists have created specially commissioned sculptures and installations.
There were some really witty and interesting pieces and it was a really great surprise to come across the exhibition in a place I’d least expected it. Though it was great to travel into the Camargue and see wild white horses, pink flamingos and black bulls, being a bit of a culture vulture this was a real highlight of the day for me.
If you’re in the area (It’s near Aigues-Mortes on the edge of the Camargue) over the summer, it’s well worth a visit (it’s free). It’s not mentioned on the Chateau’s website, but the nice lady on the gate said it’s open until the autumn.
Tags: art, chateau d'avignon, provence