The Espace Esther et Félix Oudin is worth the detour and we'll tell you why
Whether one is sensitive to religious art or not, the collection that is discreetly hidden just behind the Basilica deserves to be opened and explored.
Julie LittleIn the east chapel of the Basilica, there is a Virgin and Child . Its appearance is somewhat reminiscent of the Black Madonnas found in Le Puy-en-Velay or Notre-Dame d'Ay. However, it has no Romanesque origins. This Our Lady of Peace is the work of the artist Félix Oudin.
An unexpected artistic heritage
It is by taking a closer interest in the art of this son of a teacher from Loiret, that the Jesuit fathers of Lalouvesc will bequeath this collection by their descendants. It comes from the workshop of Félix and his wife Esther.
Félix Oudin defined himself as an image maker. He worked after the war as a model maker in an architecture firm and we find in his sculptures this concern for balance and proportions.
A modern style for a millennial subject
Both artists are remarkably modern . The exotic influence is quite pronounced (India, with the Virgin of Hope inspired by Pondicherry). There is also something reminiscent of the colorful churches of Mexico or Northeast Brazil.
The simplicity of the details contrasts sharply with the emotion emanating from the figures. It's an art that could easily be described as affectionate, or even naive . The faces are open and harmonious. Small, carefully considered details lend them a striking humanity. Thus, the sculptures inspire in the viewer a desire to converse, to approach them. The art is religious, sacred, yes! But so direct, so seemingly simple, and imbued with warmth that one feels at ease. One feels more welcomed than intimidated by its subjects and saints, whose struggles sometimes elude us.
Julie Little
Julie Little
Julie Little
Julie Little
Julie Little
A family visit
While the collection discreetly invites pilgrims on the Saint Regis path to reflect and introspect on a living and communicative faith, do not hesitate to visit the Oudin space with children.
Before contributing to the revival of sacred art in France, Félix was an illustrator for children , and it shows. The characters, especially the animals, will undoubtedly inspire many children to draw or sculpt . Between a fun activity to learn to identify trees and a delicious chestnut ice cream, it will be a wonderful way to fulfill the expectations of a cultural and artistic holiday.