A simple story
It was during an informal discussion between two men that the idea of a convivial and unusual event in the Marais Poitevin was born.
A weekend entirely dedicated to Art, and more particularly to painting. Who will be surprised to learn that one of the two friends is Bernard TEXIERfather of the famous "Human Rights" painter, Richard Texier ? The other is Jean Thébaultwho was then Mayor of Magné, who gave substance to the idea that had germinated in their conversation. Things didn't take long. Visit 4 April 1989The Town Council has set up an entertainment committee whose members are Claude AudisThe deputy was given the task. Discussions began and contacts were made. On 13 April, the birth announcement for the Magné International Painting Festival is published. The 3rd weekend in July will traditionally be devoted to it. Visit 22 and 23 July 198923 participants set up their easels on the banks of the Sèvre.
The path we have travelled is immense, closely following the banks of the Sèvre among the easels and the scent of turpentine.
So many hopes cherished, projects drawn up, efforts made! So many contacts made, friendships built, as solid as walls! The original organising team has changed little and their motivation remains intact. Major resources have been deployed to maintain the reputation of the Magné Painting Festival: 30,000 triptychs are made available to the public throughout France, 2,500 leaflets are distributed, and a high-performance website is regularly updated.
For several years now, the Magné Painting Festival has welcomed almost 300 participants. Now the "I'm going to Magné this year"has become the password for painters. Can you imagine that there are more than 5,000 artistic representations of our town spread throughout the country and abroad? Thousands of people now know Magné through its Painting Festival. Is it utopian to envisage a Place des Arts in Magné? Magné, Montmartre-sur-Sèvre, certainly not, but a certain idea of simple pleasures to be shared.
The Espace Culturel du Four Pontet is the venue for some fine exhibitions. They have enabled us to welcome the great names in contemporary art, painting and sculpture, some of whom return regularly to this not-to-be-missed summer event. We are delighted to see how far we have come, and we are doing everything we can to ensure that the future of the Magné Painting Festival matches its past.
In 2023, we'll be celebrating the 35th Magné Painting Festival!
Magné Animation was keen to mark the occasion with a Laser show. This symbolic date is once again an opportunity to thank you all: Participants, the town of Magné, local authorities, partners, guests of honour, volunteers and the public. You will find here, the testimony of a sincere friendship and a real recognition.
Over the last 35 years, we have welcomed more than 70 guests of honour, including some of the most prestigious contemporary artists.
In the land of earth and water, life is punctuated by simple pleasures. The Magné Painting Festival is an open-air celebration of art. You are cordially invited to come and join us.
