The Inner Island at Villa Carmignac is a Beguiling Journey of Introspection 

Villa Carmignac, in France, Unveils a Deeply Engaging Art Exhibition 

On April 29, Fondation Carmignac debuted “The Inner Island,” a wondrous exhibition at Villa Carmignac on the ethereal Porquerolles Island—a thriving, natural monument—in the South of France. Currently on view through November 5, the labyrinthine show, curated by Jean-Marie Gallais, spotlights over 80 artworks by 50 visionary creatives. The poetic theme is integral to the heart and soul of the museum, as General Director Charles Carmignac encourages visitors to let all expectations fall away while exploring the mysterious Villa, fully engaging with dynamic, surreal works which often spark new pathways to understanding the extraordinary self. New pieces and immersive installations by artists such as Alexander Calder, Caroline Achaintre, Roy Lichtenstein, Jérémy Demester, and Cathy Josefowitz, are presented thoughtfully alongside permanent treasures by Adrián Villar Rojas, Janaina Mello Landini, and Miquel Barceló. 

A Juxtaposition of Private and Public Collections at Villa Carmignac

“The Inner Island has been the subtitle of our museum in Porquerolles from the outset,” explained Carmignac. “It is taken from a drawing by Stephan Zimmerli, my acolyte from the Moriarty Group, who imagined the visitors’ circuit as a mental journey oscillating around a surface line. In this circuit, the interior dimension of the island is compounded by the presence of the forest, the underground space of the Villa, and the choice of certain works, whose contemplation provokes introspection.” Derived from both private and public collections, the fascinating works unfold at the Villa Carmignac through a meticulously designed circuit, spearheaded by Jasmin Oezcebi alongside Gallais. Sequences titled Prelude, Dive, Neither place nor time, The ascent, and The gardens, lead visitors through evolving worlds that delight and challenge each of the six senses. 

How to get to Fondation Carmignac? Where a Nurturing and Integrated Museum Circuit Leads a Path of Empathy 

Once removing shoes for a holistic, barefoot experience, guests of the Villa Carmignac—situated in the center of a sacred National Park—will encounter the three sub-sequences of Prelude on the ground floor: Landscapes in bodies, Day and night, and Learning to see. Lichtenstein’s graphic work of introspection, Landscape (1977), and Auguste Rodin’s iconic sculpture of a figure with no arms, in desperate need of self-embracement, titled La Voix Intérieure ou Méditation sans bras (1896), beckons visitors to embark on a spiritual journey of self-discovery and collective revelation. Macedonia Road (2013) by Verne Dawson and Untitled (Deserto-Modelo) (2021) are dreamlike oil paintings which guide viewers through a lyrical understanding of past, present, and future by way of organic landscapes, ancestral narratives, and melodious brushstrokes. 

“All these works are doors, thresholds, and even more so in their dialogues and their temporary relocation to this small island in the Mediterranean,” said Gallais. “Where do these doors lead? I think that the answer will be completely different for each person, which is also why the interpretation of the works is left quite open: the texts that accompany them only indicate possible directions.” 

The fragrant garden level, where crisp eucalyptus and sea spray soothe the soul, is home to the sub-sequences of The weight of the sun, The crossing, Abysses, A world in itself, Fullmoon, The deep water loop, and Myths and presences. Masterpieces by artists such as Peter Diog, Norbert Schwontkowski, Giulia Andreani, and Harold Ancart, speak to both the light and dark of the complex human psyche in relation to its enigmatic environment. The mesmerizing sculpture work of Agniesza Kurant, titled A.A.I (14-19) (2017), presenting sequin and crystal embellished termite mounds, and Darren Almond’s rapturous photo print of Porquerolles Island, titled Fullmoon@Sarranier (2022), focus on our ever-evolving perceptions, collaborations, and connections. 

Creativity and a Rebirth of the Soul Flourishes in the Open Air of Carmignac

Under the freedom of blue sky, sculptural gems set within the Villa’s alluring forests and olive groves further entrance visitors. Antoine Espinasseau’s Fruit (2023) is a sensual bronze and metal ornament which chimes ceremoniously, echoing the sweet songs of mother nature. Adrián Villar Rojas’ THE MOST BEAUTIFUL OF ALL MOTHERS (XII) (THE BISON) (2015) depicts the powerful animal bravely carrying physical and spiritual remnants of the past on its back into an uncertain future. Additional highlights spread across the island include “Mur-Mures,” vivacious sound portraits by Ingrid Blanchard and Bernard Pesce which give voice to the 60th anniversary of the Port-Cros National Park, and L’HYDROCHOSE (2023), a symphony of water and sound within the dome of the Sainte-Agathe Fort by Jacques with Alexandre Gain. Daytime tours, meditation sessions, and creative workshops are ideal for family visits. Musical shows under starlight by Soundwalk Collective and The Conservatoire de musique de Toulon Provence Méditerranée, with nightly culinary and cinematic adventures open to all, provide unforgettable moments of enchantment and awakening. 

Villa Carmignac recommends making reservations for tickets as well as for events free of charge during “The Inner Island” exhibition at villacarmignac.com.