The Almanac exhibition is the inaugural research project of Fondation d’entreprise Martell, which, since its inception five years ago, is now evolving into a research and experimentation platform for art and design, as well as a space for raising awareness and learning – with a focus on living things.

This experimental initiative, which takes the form of an exhibition, residencies, encounters, and a living archive laboratory, emerged from a reflection on how a foundation located in a context that is rural yet industrial, prosperous yet remote, can establish itself as an agent for local dynamism and activate new potential for collective transformation. It soon became clear that the first step, before taking any action, would require the compilation of an inventory of the region’s resources and issues.

A team of designers was assigned with an investigative mission involving a wide range of local contacts (institutions, businesses, professional networks, and residents of Charente and Charente-Maritime), to identify local resources – natural and industrial, tangible and intangible.

The team led by Olivier Peyricot with Lola Carrel, Valentin Patis, and Mathilde Pellé, established an investigative methodology before embarking on the collection and analysis work.

The subjective view resulting from their observations is presented on the second floor of the Foundation. It offers an immersion into the collected samples, enabling visitors to rediscover significant materials and neglected deposits, living techniques, and forgotten know-how.

This multi-faceted and contributory project explores the processes of production and interdependence in order to better position itself as a tool and catalyst for transition, enabling the development of unique creative practices that bring about change. The aim is to create new imaginaries and chart new ways for building a resilient and equitable future.