Dordogne: nomadic culinary encounters surrounded by works of art

At the age of 9, she discovered Paul Bocuse's book, "La Cuisine du marché," which "remained [her] bible." Lacking the necessary ingredients, she improvised, unafraid of failure. "I always ate what I made, so I understood how to improve," she says, amused. Equally influenced by her distant Italian roots and a Vietnamese upbringing, her cuisine is imbued with vegetables, spices, herbs, and flowers.

As the character of Lanouaille's grand residence gradually revealed itself, she wanted to share the magic of the place, which had become a showcase for her inspirations and, of course, the creations of the man she calls her "partner," who works in his studio just a stone's throw away. A duo she describes as "creative and modern," who wants to be "anchored in their time, driven by the desire for true connection."

Other artists will be invited. A crossroads, a place for exchange, an "artists' house" that she wants to be outside of time and the frenzy of social media. An attractive idea that she doesn't rule out "transforming" to Paris or other exceptional sites in the Périgord and bringing to life through an associative model, in the style of an "English club," already dubbed "MUSE-J, Maison d'artistes, chef nomad."

A trial run among friends in early April will be transformed from the first weekend of July on the occasion of the Lanouaille Book Fair. "From 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., we will be able to enjoy a savory dish or pastries, tea, and other drinks." Dinners will follow, by reservation, on Thursdays, July 10 and 17 and Fridays, July 11 and 18, and again in early August. There, Julia Jacqueminet will be able to express her talents as a chef, with "natural wines and alcohol-free alternatives, including a local kombucha made near Thiviers."

In addition to works by Xavier Lenormand, paintings by Monif Ajaj, the Syrian artist who can also be seen at the Château de Campagne this summer, will be on display.