CARRÉ BASTIEN

Conques-en-Rouergue is a French town that's home to a unique architectural curiosity: the former convent of St Cyprien. Founded in the 15th and 16th centuries, this religious building is made up of several houses that have been transformed over time. The stone, wood and tiled concrete landings and staircases create a labyrinth of centuries-old elements and more recent fixtures and fittings. The convent has been renovated to become an exhibition space, and it was here that Bastien Carré, an artist specializing in sculptures, paintings and mobiles using LEDs, decided to carry out his finest project. He transformed the convent into a showcase for his work, blending art and enchantment. Under the rafters is the studio room of Honoré, the building's maintenance man, who has developed luminous sculptures with fireflies. The site is open to visitors upon reservation, and also offers group tours and a premium tour with an exchange with the artist in his studio.