From architects to designers, painters and sculptors, many artists have helped to fashion the cultural and artistic identity of Nouvelle-Aquitaine over the years.
The wine region of Bordeaux has a long history of forging links between the world of wine and art. Many artists have made their mark across all four corners of the region. Follow their paths from yesteryear to the present day, through their lives, tales and works of art.
Often known as Château de Toulouse-Lautrec, Château Malromé was the artist’s home at the end of the 19th century. Located in Entre-deux-Mers, the property has an exhibition gallery where you can discover Toulouse-Lautrec’s works alongside new talent from the world of modern art, accompanied by a tasting of the estate’s wines.
In Blaye and Bourg, a female artist takes pride of place. Born in Bourg in 1860, the sculptor Gabrielle Dumontet established a reputation beyond Nouvelle-Aquitaine over a rich artistic career. Some of her works remain in Bourg and can be admired on a side trip from one of the local vineyards.
In the Médoc, legend has it that Château Chasse-Spleen’s name was inspired by a neighbour, Odilon Redon, the Symbolist painter who illustrated Les Fleurs du mal by Baudelaire. Today, the property’s modern art gallery fuses the tradition of creating grand crus with artistic creativity.
In Graves and Sauternes, Château de Gravas has been exhibiting the works of Paul Flickinger for several years, an artist who also designed the labels on the “La Trilogie de Gravas” cuvée.
Each year, an artist decorates the vat halls at Château Les Carmes Haut-Brion, near Bordeaux, according to a different theme. Ara Stark, Sergio Mora and Beniloy have already applied their artistic talents to this challenge, with spectacular results.
Another bold work of art decorates the wine landscape in Saint-Émilion: Château La Dominique’s cellar, with its sleek red walls evoking the world of wine. Designed by the architect Jean Nouvel, it provides a spark of modernity and light amidst the vines.
Nouvelle-Aquitaine plays a variety of artistic roles, from being a source of inspiration and creativity, to a venue for art exhibitions. One thing’s for sure: this is a land of expression, both for winemakers and artists!
