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The teeming world of Loudunais artisans
The artists and craftspeople of the Pays Loudunais are the true ambassadors of PL’Savoir-faire. Haven’t you heard of it? It’sa real way of life, one that captures the essence of the region. The gang and I love getting out and about and discovering the regions through their crafts. This time, our quest took us off the beaten track to meet the people who make the heart of the Pays Loudunais beat faster. It’s a fascinating world where know-how is king.
A tour of the Terra Villa d'Ouzilly Vignolles dwelling
Our first stop was the Terra Villa dwelling atOuzilly Vignolles. Here, we’re not just talking about construction, we’re talking about an earthen house. It’s a real history lesson that the ‘bauge’ walls of this dwelling tell us. We were lucky enough to see a demonstration of age-old techniques and learn how earth, a material thousands of years old, continues to shape our landscape. Good to know: thesite regularly offers hands-on workshops in cob and natural paint, perfect for those curious about eco-construction.
It’s an ideal introduction to the close link between housing and local resources.
Monumental sculpture with Alex Labejof in Loudun
Speaking of sculpture, how can we not mention the inimitable Alex Labejof? Tucked away in his studio in Loudun, Alex juggles stone, metal and wood to create works that leave no one indifferent. I remember meeting one of his monumental sculptures: an almost mystical experience. Zack was also fascinated by the way the artist from Loudun tames metal to give it an astonishing organic fluidity. His creations, scattered around the world, are a vibrant tribute to matter.
Everything revolves around the earth in Loudun
Not far away, still in Loudun, another workshop catches the eye: Tout tourne autour de la terre. Here, Mikael Thiou invites us to rediscover ceramics in all their forms. Each piece is an adventure, a marriage between art and nature. I spent hours observing these creations, which seem almost alive, inspired by the bark of trees or the undulations of the ground. Mikael takes the time to explain the complex firing process, which adds an even more precious dimension to each object on display. This visit is a must if you want to unearth a unique piece ofcraftsmanship from Loudun.
Enchanting jewellery at Lilas Orange Perles in Pouant
In Pouant, we were welcomed by Lydie Fallecker in her workshop Lilas Orange Perles et Bijoux. Her flame-blown glass creations are real treasures. Each piece of jewellery tells a story, and I couldn’t resist taking home one of these little pieces of art that capture the light in such a unique way. Charlotte particularly enjoyed watching Lydie work the molten glass with almost surgical precision before her very eyes. It’s the perfect place to find an authentic and poetic gift.
Anne-Rémy and Francis Clamagirand's pottery in Prinçay
Our odyssey to discover the artisans of the Pays Loudunais then took us to Prinçay, where the duo Anne-Rémy and Francis Clamagirand opened the doors of their pottery workshop. Their pieces, inspired by the pottery makers of the 18th and 19th centuries, are a feast for the eyes. We even had the chance to get our hands dirty in a workshop, an experience that was as rewarding as it was relaxing. The workshop is set in a bucolic setting that immediately invites you to switch off and get creative. Micha and I came away from the workshop with the feeling of having put our finger on a fascinating historical heritage.
A diversion to the Maison de Pays in Chalais
The Maison de Pays in Chalais is a veritable crossroads of discovery. There’s a shop full of local produce andarts and crafts, the perfect place to discover the soul of the Pays Loudunais. It’s also the perfect place to take a gourmet break and savour the richness of our terroirs. The temporary exhibition space allows you to discover new local talent, adding to the interest of your visit. And Arthus has picked out a few local specialities for our next picnic.
Patricia Guillaume's frescoes in Aulnay
To round off this craft escapade, we met Patricia Guillaume in Aulnay. This artist transforms walls into real works of art with her frescoes and trompe-l’œil. I was fascinated by the way she brings colours and patterns to life, telling unique stories with every brushstroke. And she’s happy to share her trade secrets. So if you have any questions about how to prepare the pigments, don’t hesitate! Inèshas already jotted down her contact details for a future decorating project, so inspiring is her style.
Every encounter, every workshop visited, is an immersion into a world where expertise and passion combine to produce authentic, inspiring creations. The Pays Loudunais is undoubtedly a destination of choice for craft lovers. So, are you ready to fall in love with the craftspeople of the Pays Loudunais?
