Damien Hirst will present a transformative exhibition of his work at Château La Coste from March 2 to June 23, 2024. Dubbed “The Light That Shines,” the show unfolds with various sculptures and paintings, encompassing Hirst’s past work and never-before-seen creations.
Over his prolific career, Hirst has delved into the intricate connections between beauty, religion, science, life, and death. The Renzo Piano Pavilion will host critical pieces from the renowned “Natural History” series, which initiated Hirst’s work with formaldehyde in the early nineties.
The butterfly, an enduring motif in Hirst’s repertoire, takes centre stage in the Richard Rogers Gallery. The debut of ‘The Empress Paintings’ reveals mesmerizing kaleidoscopic patterns crafted from red and black butterfly wings, each named after influential female rulers from history.
“It’s beyond brilliant what Paddy McKillen has achieved at Château La Coste which is such a wonderful and unique place. I am thrilled and excited to be the first artist to do a takeover show and have my work exhibited across the whole estate, particularly in the mega pavilions designed by Frank Gehry, Oscar Niemeyer and Richard Rogers. Paddy McKillen is a genius and great friend and wonderful human and he makes the most amazing places for people to be. I’m so happy to be a part of Paddy’s vision.” – Damien Hirst
Venturing into new territory, Cosmos Paintings and sculptures from the Meteorites and Satellites series, envisioned by Jean-Michel Wilmotte, will grace the Old Wine Store Gallery. Inspired by the Hubble Space Telescope’s celestial imagery, ‘Cosmos Paintings’ emerged as Hirst’s exploration beyond earthly confines, painting canvases black to overlay with vibrant splashes.
In the Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium, marvel at sculptures and lightboxes from ‘Treasures from the Wreck of the Unbelievable,’ a series initially unveiled in 2017 across Punta della Dogana and Palazzo Grassi in Venice.
Embracing the avant-garde, Hirst introduces his latest creation, ‘The Secret Gardens Paintings,’ showcased in the Bastide Gallery. These vibrant depictions of flowers feature abstract layers of vivid paint splatters, offering a contemporary take on the classical subject.
Embark on an artistic journey through the unexpected as Château La Coste’s Art and Architecture Walk hosts additional surprises, encapsulating the essence of Hirst’s unparalleled creativity.
A Symphony of Nature and Artistry: Château La Coste Unveiled
Where Viticulture Meets Visionary Art
Nestled in the heart of Provence, Château La Coste emerges as a harmonious fusion of breathtaking landscapes and cutting-edge artistry. This architectural gem is a testament to the marriage of viticulture and visionary aesthetics, offering a sensory journey that captivates both the oenophile and the art connoisseur.
Enchanting Vineyards and Architectural Elegance
As you traverse the undulating vineyards that drape the estate, the sheer beauty of Château La Coste unfolds. Renowned architects and artists have converged to create a sensory symphony where the organic rhythm of nature dances in tandem with structural elegance.
The architectural narrative is diverse and captivating. The illustrious Renzo Piano, celebrated for his ingenuity, leaves an indelible mark with the Piano Pavilion, seamlessly integrating into the Provencal landscape. The Oscar Niemeyer Auditorium, another gem, echoes the Brazilian architect’s signature curves, offering a captivating backdrop for artistic expression.
Damien Hirst’s “The Light That Shines”
Château La Coste is not merely a feast for the eyes; it’s an immersive experience. Damien Hirst’s “The Light That Shines” exhibition is currently gracing its galleries, an exploration of beauty, religion, science, life, and death. From the iconic ‘Natural History’ series to the mesmerizing kaleidoscopic patterns of ‘The Empress Paintings’ using butterfly wings, Hirst’s creations unfold in spaces designed to elevate the viewing experience.
Wander through the Old Wine Store Gallery, conceptualized by Jean-Michel Wilmotte, where ‘Cosmos Paintings’ and sculptures from ‘Meteorites’ and ‘Satellites’ beckon. Inspired by the cosmos, Hirst’s works transcend earthly confines, inviting contemplation and awe.
The Secret Gardens Paintings and Beyond
In the Bastide Gallery, immerse yourself in Hirst’s most recent series, ‘The Secret Gardens Paintings.’ Vibrantly coloured flowers leap from the canvas, adorned with abstract layers of paint splatters—an ode to nature and artistic experimentation.
As you traverse the Art and Architecture Walk, curated surprises await, enriching the narrative of Château La Coste. Here, innovation and nature converse in a language that transcends boundaries.
An Evolving Canvas of Possibilities Château La Coste remains an ever-evolving canvas, hosting an array of exhibitions, installations, and events celebrating the union of viticulture and artistry. The estate’s commitment to sustainability and creativity paints a portrait of a sanctuary where visitors are invited to partake in a sensory sojourn through the realms of nature and artistic brilliance.
For those seeking an escape into a world where the vines intertwine with avant-garde expressions, Château La Coste is an enchanting destination that seamlessly blends the terroir of Provence with the transcendent allure of contemporary art.
Top Photo: Prudence Cuming Associates Ltd © Damien Hirst and Science Ltd. All rights reserved, DACS/Artimage 2023 Courtesy Damien Hirst Château Le Coste