Exhibition: Leah Linh brings Peter II of Savoy to life

Contemporary artist, Leah Linh, takes us on a journey back to the 13th century in her exhibition Fortunes and reflections in the era of Peter II of Savoy.

The artist immersed herself in this era, often described as the golden age of Savoy, to produce 12 works inspired by pivotal moments in the life of Peter II, Count of Savoy.

Taking inspiration from the destiny of emblematic prince Peter II of Savoy (1203-1268), Vaud-based artist Leah Linh (2000*) has produced 12 resplendent works of art in monumental, varied formats, on display at the heart of the castle from 14 September 2023. Her creations form a harmonious dialogue with the architecture of the medieval fortress. To capture this auspicious period, the young female artist used one of her favourite materials – gold leaf – to reflect illuminated medieval manuscripts. The result is an imposing installation, reminiscent of an open book, dedicated to the count of Savoy.

Her canvases-pages measure 6 meters long and 2.2 meters wide. The idea of illuminated capital, so well-decorated in medieval works, is hijacked by maximizing its size and gilded effect. A feast for the eyes and the soul!

Leah Linh explains how the challenge has seen her style evolve, “This exhibition has helped me grow in terms of technique; I tried things I would never have dared before, with a new dynamic and a different way of imagining my pieces.”

Her trademark red, black, white and gold colour palette cuts throughout her entire body of work. In addition to a large-scale installation, the exhibition offers a selection of pieces using varied techniques such as sculpture, paint, and one piece of glasswork, specially introduced for this Chillon Castle Foundation commission.

Leah Linh will be giving exclusive guided tours on 28 January, 17 March and 14 April 2024.

To prepare for your visit, Leah Linh recommends that you take the VMCV public transport bus bearing her image. Line 510 will take you through our beautiful region. This bus inaugurated the unveiling of the first work completed by the artist… “D’or et de pouvoir” (About gold and power). This preview took place on 5 September 2023 thanks to our partnership with the VMCV, which will be taking our public from the Riviera to the Chablais, via Vevey, Montreux, Chillon and Villeneuve.

To find out more, complete your visit with information about the exhibition poster and play the Leah Linh and Pierre II de Savoie quiz!