In Mane, in Haute-Provence, the work “Contes Silencios” by Júlia Lema Barros, winner of the 1st Cultures Prize, was inaugurated at the Couvent des Minimes.
The Couvent des Minimes, Hotel & Spa L’Occitane en Provence, was the scene, Tuesday May 26, 2026, of the opening of the work of Júlia Lema Barros, crowned first winner of the Cultures Prize. This initiative, launched by L’Occitane en Provence, in partnership with the Provence Culture network, aims to support and promote contemporary artistic creation anchored in its territory. The event marked the inauguration of the artist’s immersive installation, entitled “Contes Silencios”.
A price anchored in its terroir
The evening brought together influential personalities from the local economic, cultural and political world. Fabien Piacentino, Director of the Couvent des Minimes which hosts the work, took turns at the microphone, Adrien Geiger, CEO of L’Occitane en Provence, Barbara Satre, President of the Provence Culture network and the Aix-en-Provence art school, as well as Jacques Depieds, Mayor of Mane.
A powerful symbol of the roots of this new prize, the trophy awarded to Júlia Lema Barros was not a conventional object. It was carved directly from a cade stump, an iconic and resilient shrub from the region’s arid landscapes, highlighting the deep link between the cultural initiative and its Provençal identity.
A sensory immersion in Haute-Provence
The guests were able to wander around discovering “Contes Silencios”, a multimedia installation which takes over three emblematic spaces of the hotel: the lobby, the historic staircase and the passageway of the Alembic. Inspired by the philosophy of writer Jean Giono, the work combines visual and sonic elements to create a contemplative experience.
A continuous sound track accompanies the visitor, inviting them to take a break and immerse themselves in the depth, light and sounds so particular of Haute-Provence. The installation is designed to dialogue with the architecture and history of the place, while offering a new perspective to residents and visitors of the Couvent des Minimes.
The artist’s vision
Júlia Lema Barros explains her creative approach in terms that underline the subtlety of her intervention.
« I wanted to create a sensitive crossing by playing with a gentle transparency and creating harmony between the space and the work.”, explain Júlia Lema Barros.
« I was inspired by both the history of the place and the order of the minimal. Rather than adding something that would distract the eye, I wanted to invite people to pay attention to the details present.” continues the artist.
The work “Contes Silencios” can be discovered on a self-guided tour at the Couvent des Minimes, a L’Occitane en Provence hotel & spa, located Chemin des Jeux de mai, 04300 Mane.
About the organizers
Founded in 1976, Maison L’Occitane en Provence offers a range of treatments, perfumes and well-being products inspired by the Provençal art of living. Drawing on local traditions and know-how, the brand shares sensory experiences through more than 3,000 points of sale, 100 spas and 2,500 partner hotels around the world, including its emblematic establishment, Le Couvent des Minimes.
To find out more:
fr.loccitane.com.
The Provence Culture network, founded in 2023 by 12 major cultural players in the region, works for cooperation, innovation and solidarity. Its mission is to place culture at the heart of the development of Provence by bringing together artists, institutions, businesses and citizens. More information on provenceculture.org/.
Le Couvent des Minimes, a L’Occitane Hotel & Spa in Provence, is a 5-star Relais & Châteaux establishment located in Mane. Housed in a former 17th century convent, it offers a setting of refined luxury, conducive to relaxation and sharing in the heart of Haute-Provence.
Visit the site:
couventdesminimes-hotelspa.com.
via Presse Agence.
