The Villa Arson invites the public to explore its site, gardens, terraces, history, and architecture, which has been labeled as 20th-century heritage. It is also an opportunity to learn about an institution dedicated to art for forty years, encompassing a National School of Art, a contemporary art center, and an artist residency, based on a project imagined by André Malraux, then Minister of Cultural Affairs.
An unusual procession around the work of Patrick Van Caeckenbergh “Le dais – Le ciel à la portée de tous” (The Canopy – The Sky Within Everyone’s Reach): a sky-colored canopy 10 meters long with its 20 carriers, a horse, a drum man… and in the presence of the artist.
This Sunday at 10:00 AM: departure from the Libération market – Raoul Mille Library forecourt. A walk (approximately 1 hour) to the St-Barthélémy hill and the Villa Arson, with a grand picnic in the gardens upon arrival. Vegetables and fruits will be offered, and everyone is invited to supplement their picnic basket with products of their choice.
At 1:30 PM: Guided tour of the Villa Arson for all participants.
Located on the St-Barthélémy hill, the Villa Arson occupies a domain of over 2 hectares offering an exceptional view of the city of Nice. This unique architectural ensemble, erected in the middle of a Mediterranean garden, includes the 19th-century former residence of the Arson family, now nestled within modern concrete and pebble constructions designed in the 1960s by the architect Michel Marot. Discovering the terraces, which are true hanging gardens, is one of the highlights of this visit.
The exhibitions and events scheduled throughout the year offer an opportunity to experience today’s art.
