Hidden among the emerald forest of Porquerolles, a tiny untouched island floating off the South of France, is a collection of contemporary artworks to uncover.
Porquerolles feels a world away from the glitz and glamour of the South of France. And since Villa Carmignac opened in 2018 to showcase Foundation Carmignac’s 300-strong art collection, there is another reason to visit this island which is better known for its unadulterated peace and tranquillity.
What’s more, in the midst of a protected natural park, the villa can only be reached by boat, making it an ideal attraction for guests on a luxury yacht charter vacation through the French Riviera.
An otherworldly experience in the heart of a protected natural park where contemporary Pop Art awaits discovery at every corner
Once an old farmhouse and vineyard, the property has now been transformed into a series of cavernous galleries. As the villa is on a protected site, the renovations involved clearing 2,000 square metres of space beneath the surface.
A standout feature is the aquatic ceiling, where light filters through water for a beautiful effect. But art lovers will be more impressed by the line-up of mostly post-war artworks, including pictures from Roy Lichtenstein, Andy Warhol, and Jean-Michel Basquiat.
The art continues into the 15-hectare garden too. Striking sculptures disappear and re-appear due to cleverly landscaped trees and shrubs, which are all native to the island.
Inside the villa, the spaces expand and extend in the shape of a cross. In the center, an aquatic ceiling lets in natural light and illuminates these underwater spaces
Some installations are framed by giant folding screens made of cane while the clear eastern terrace offers wonderful views across old oak trees and vineyards. New olive trees, a small orchard and jacarandas have been planted, too.
Numbers to Villa Carmignac are restricted, so visitors can expect an exclusive experience, where great Pop Art pieces and modern sculptures appear at one with Porquerolle’s unspoilt surrounds.
If you would like to incorporate a visit to Villa Carmignac into your charter itinerary, please speak with your prefered yacht charter broker.
Alternatively, view the entire fleet of superyachts for charter in the South of France.
