Robert Tatin

After paddling across the south of France with Nigel, I thought about where I had been. This visit to The Musee de Robert Tatin, in Cosse le Vivien, France, came as a gift to us the day before we left France.
Maria, Camilla's sister, had seen my work and was so insistent that we should see this unusual place that she stopped everything she was doing and, despite the fact that it was pouring down with rain among other things, offered to take us there.

We could not refuse.

Trusting her enthusiasm, we hopped into the car and sped along narrow roads and through torrents of rain to this personal shrine.

Robert Tatin lived here for the last 21 years of his life. He is buried on the site. Though she moved out of the house so that this special place can be shared by many, a place is waiting for his wife, Lise, to join him when she is ready.

Tatin traveled widely and his imagery reflects this. Figures reminiscent of Incan gods and Indian goddesses populate the meditation garden. The figures all seem happy and content. Harmony reigns. One will see strong influences of great, early 20th century artists like Picasso, Miro and Klee, but the over all effect of the environment is quite original.

   The glowering day could not dampen our delight. Heavy skies enhanced an aura of magic here as we wondered through the arcades, literally entering the world of Robert Tatin.

Cement and wire armatures were used to construct the sculptures and buildings on the land around a centuries old stone farm house. With in the labyrinth of the Meditation garden, one will visit numerous chambers and see displayed paintings, prints and ceramics also by Tatin.

A tour of his house was the cherry on the cake.

The space was small, yet so well organized.
White plastered walls with shelving sculpted into them and chunky wooden furnishings lent the place a doll house/caveman like ambiance. Unfortunately no photos allowed inside.

Though it was Sunday and the weather was inclement, the museum was packed. It was so easy to spend time there! One wanted to absorb as much of the positive energy generated by such an out pouring of creativity as possible.

Thank you Maria,

xxoo