A Family of Rooms

As part of Les Tanneries' artistic programming cycle entitled Nos maisons apparentées (Our Related Houses) (between 2023 and 2026), the exhibition can be explored in the diverse spaces of the art center, akin to a house whose different rooms illustrate various aspects of the artist's long and intricate artistic and personal journey, filled with both triumphs and challenges that have shaped his identity as an artist. The exhibition features not only a collection of stunning visual artworks but also interactive installations that invite viewers to engage more deeply with the narratives presented.

Vincent Barré, an accomplished artist with a rich history of exhibiting his work worldwide, presents several aspects of his œuvre corresponding to the pivotal periods of his life. This body of work is not only a reflection of his personal experiences but is also strongly linked to his teaching activity, as he passionately emphasizes the importance of education in the arts and the nurturing of future artistic talents. His creative spirit is evident in every piece, inviting observers to not only appreciate the art but to also reflect on their own journeys and the common threads that connect us all through shared experiences and emotional landscapes.

By showcasing his personal collection of objects, photographs, and artworks created by artist friends and former students, he offers a glimpse into the vibrant community that has been part of his private life. This community has not only been a source of inspiration since the start of his career but has also played a pivotal role in shaping his artistic journey, providing mutual support and encouragement. Together, these elements create a rich tapestry that highlights the interconnectedness of his experiences, both personal and professional, allowing visitors to see his life as an artist in all its depth and complexity.

This recognition not only serves as an homage to his contributions but also appeals to a new generation of art lovers, urging them to delve into their own explorations of creativity and expression. Explore more about his inspirations, his contribution to contemporary art, and the legacy he leaves behind as the exhibition opens up new pathways for understanding the compelling stories woven into every canvas and sculpture. This acknowledgment not only serves as a tribute to his contributions but also resonates with a new generation of art enthusiasts, inviting them to explore their own journeys of creativity and expression.

Room IV / The glass house. And finally, young artists from the Beaux-Arts whom Vincent Barré mentored during their training years (1990–2011) also taking part in the exhibition. These talented individuals have dedicated countless hours to perfecting their art, learning from the insightful guidance of Barré. Their return to Amilly, where they have participated in several residencies, is expressed through installations that occupy the Verrière and the sculpture park. Each piece showcases their personal growth and evolving artistic vision, reflecting a unique blend of their experiences and the invaluable lessons learned under Barré's mentorship. The exhibition promises to be a testament to their hard work and creativity, inviting visitors to engage with the diverse expressions of contemporary art they have developed over the years.

Room II / The Upper Gallery, a rich dialogue unfolds between modern and contemporary works that Vincent loved. This includes a diverse array of artists who held significant importance to him, as well as an impressive collection of sculptures and drawings that hail from the early periods of his illustrious career. These artistic offerings consist of assemblages, bronzes, ceramics, and striking black drawings, all of which contribute to the narrative of his evolving artistic journey, inviting viewers to engage with the essence of the spirit.

Room I / The Grande Halle presents large cast iron and aluminum sculptures created over the last twenty-five years, as well as an installation designed in collaboration with Pierre Creton in 2021 that reflects a unique blend of film and sculpture, providing a deeper context for his retrospective at the Cinéma du Réel at the Centre Pompidou.

Room III / In The drawing room, a collection of his sketchbooks, on loan from the Beaux-Arts de Paris or the Endowment Fund, traces his entire career, from his studies in 1973 in the United States with architect Louis Kahn and engineer Robert Le Ricolais to the present day: his travels, museums, encounters and projects. By also presenting his personal collection of objects, photographs and paintings by artist friends and former students, he gives a glimpse of the community that has been part of his private life and inspired him since the beginning of his career.

A Family of Rooms exhibition invites viewers to delve into the narratives behind the artworks and to experience the myriad of emotions that breathe life into each unique and captivating piece. Each carefully curated element of the exhibition takes us back in time, capturing profound moments of joy, deep contemplation, and transformational experiences. Vincent Barré conveys all of this with the hope of inspiring others to embark on their own enriching journeys of artistic exploration, promoting a personal connection with art and cultivating a deeper understanding of the creative process that artists undergo. By engaging with these narratives, we not only celebrate the beauty of the artworks themselves but also contemplate our own experiences and interpretations, making the experience of art both a collective and individual journey.

The Exhibition on view until 19 October 2025 at Les Tanneries, 234 Rue des ponts 45200 Amilly, France