Contemporary art is in the spotlight at Thiers, in the Hollow of Hell. Indeed, installed in a former cutlery factory, this contemporary art center of national interest hosts astonishing exhibitions every year.
Currently, until January 7, 2024, discover the exhibition (free entry) by the artist Vladimir Skoda which presents his work of sculpture and drawing around the “ constellations“. The work “Pyramide” will also be visible on Place Antonin Chastel in Thiers.
A certified contemporary art center in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Since October 2019, the contemporary art center Le Creux de l'Enfer has been labeled by the Ministry of Culture as a “Contemporary Art Center of National Interest”. It thus becomes the first certified contemporary art center in the greater Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region. And, therefore, the 24th of France. Created in 2018, this label is a recognition of the accomplishment of certain missions. As the creation aid. Public awareness. Or, moreover, the promotion of the connection between artists and local know-how.
What sanctuarize the places and once again consolidate the budgets. But also, in the long term, to facilitate the defense of the rehabilitation project of the art center or to favor future partnerships. Likewise, encourage you to push the door of this center of contemporary art, where the vigor of Durolle resounds within its walls.
Le Creux de l'Enfer, anchored in the cutlery history of Thiers
Since 2021, Le Creux de l'enfer has been expanding and deploying its artistic and cultural project in a new building adjoining the current site. First of all, the provision of the Usine du May by the City of Thiers allows the art center to increase its exhibition surface. And then to welcome new projects offering different experiences of artistic sharing
Also, at the controls of this “boat” on the Durolle: Sophie Auger-Grappin. Who, after more than 20 years in Île-de-France, has chosen to leave Paris and an art center in the Yvelines. She then moved to Thiers, with national artistic projects for the other capital, that of cutlery.
The contemporary art center is housed in a former cutlery factory that closed for good in 1956. It originated in the policy of cultural decentralization initiated in 1985, under the impetus of Jack Lang. It opened in 1988, three years after the national symposium of monumental metal sculpture, organized by the municipality of Thiers. Of which there remain several creations scattered in the city and its surroundings. And recently, the Usine du May has been connected to the wagons.
Do you dare to push the door of the Hollow of Hell?
Several times a year, the contemporary art center renews its exhibitions and workshops. Vernissages, guided tours and conferences punctuate the annual program of the Creux de l'Enfer. Push open the door of this former cutlery factory rehabilitated into a “Contemporary art center of national interest”.