A dialog between the Middle Ages and contemporary art at Donjon de Vez, in the Oise

Only 1h30 from Paris, permanent contemporary works of art have over the years been part of this historical monument dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries. With the opening of new spaces and an exhibition of sculptures by Lalanne and Makouvia, under the impulse of the Artcurial auction house, the medieval homestead has become a high level cultural escapade.

Contemporary Art and the Middle East dialog at the Donjon de Vez

Residence of Philippe Auguste in the past, this château, that you can tour by following the remparts on foot or with a golf cart, was classified as Historical Monument in 1906. Its interactive approach nourishes the inspirations of great artists, such as Sol LeWitt, Jean Pierre Raynaud, Daniel Buren, François Morellet or even Bernar Venet in a remarkable garden designed by Pascal Cribier.

This golden flower pot in XXL size, placed in the courtyard, and the contemporary stained glass windows, are just of few examples of the site's transformation. © DR

These sculptures of doves morph into seats, while this monkey hangs on the stem of an apple to bite into it. © DR

Newly customized rooms

After the initital surprises created by the arrows of Bernar Venet, the quest of Japanese Tadashi Kawamata and the installation of Korean Lee Ufan, confronting stainless steel and stone, enter in the two new rooms of the Donjon de Vez. You will discover the library of Jacques Garcia, the Wall Drawings dining rooms and the stainless glass chapel by Daniel Buren. This is where it's happening…

In the dining room, this discrete post-modern lamp does not try to impose itself. © DR