Maison Bernard
Originally designed to be a family residence, Maison Bernard is one of the most successfully completed examples of organic architecture where Antti Lovag was able to experiment with innovative designs for a human habitat. To meet man’s needs, this architecture assembles spherical spaces which adapt to the surrounding area by integrating the natural environment and responding to the aspirations of its inhabitants – going beyond strict rational necessities. In 2013, Maison Bernard became an endowment fund which purposes are the protection and the perennity of Antti Lovag’s architectural work with Pierre Bernard and also a residence for artists.
Highlights
Antti Lovag had a unique vision of architecture. To underscore the non-conventional dimension of his approach, he defines himself as a ‘ abitologist'. He is not interested in architecture as such, but rather focuses on man and his living space to create an envelope encompassing man’s needs. He conceives the house as a space of freedom. He abondoned right angles in favor of spheres and curves because they more truly fit the mobility of man in a domestic space. His meeting with Pierre Bernard marked the beginning of a successful adventure which enabled him to complete the construction of his first house.
Insider’s Guide
Since 1995, Nadine Gomez, curator of the Musée Gassendi at Digne-les-Bains, created a contemporary art route in Haute Provence. Along this route, which is only accessible by walking, you can discover original works of artists as Andy Goldsworthy, Herman de Vries, Joan Fontcuberta, David Rabinovitch, Paul-Armand Gette,… all created in relation to the landscape and the history of the region. On the website of Musée Gassendi you can find the list of all the artists works and a map to locate them and www.refugedart.fr gives you more information about this art hiking trail.