Creation before your very eyes: the birth of works of art
It all begins in the heart of summer. During the four days of the Symposium, Foussais-Payré is transformed into a veritable open-air workshop. Artists arrive from all over France – and sometimes from far beyond – to take up the challenge of creating a work in public, using raw materials.
Chainsaws in action, sparks of metal, precise gestures on the stone… you’re witnessing a metamorphosis. Nothing is set in stone here. Each artist is free to choose his or her material, inspiration and vision. This is neither a competition nor an imposed performance. It’s total creative freedom. And that’s exactly what makes it such a fascinating experience.
A village transformed into a living gallery
Once the symposium is over, the magic continues. The works remain on display in the village for a year, adding to the permanent works that have been in place for several editions. They take up residence in alleyways, squares and old buildings.
You’ll be immersed in an open-air artistic journey, where each sculpture interacts with the stone, the houses and the history of the place.
In Foussais-Payré, which has been awarded the “Petite Cité de Caractère” label, heritage is not a static setting. It becomes a playground for artists and a place for you to explore.
An artistic stroll in total freedom
The sculptures blend naturally into the scenery: you’ll be able to see them in emblematic places like the Priory garden, around the church, under the old covered market, around the car park behind the Town Hall or near the chocolate factory. Others are more discreet, notably along the coulée verte.
You can even explore as far as Payré-sur-Vendée, where a work of art awaits you near the wash-house and its fountain.
It’s up to you to find them as you stroll along.
