Mick and I are still in shock.

Yesterday we were invited to the home of a gentleman we have met here in Fenouillet during our stay. His home is located  in a neighbouring village not too far from Fenouillet. We’d been invited, or so we thought, to view some of his larger artworks. He draws, paints and carves amazing wooden sculptures, and some of them are huge. Earlier, he had shown us some photos of his works and even given us his website address which he uses to sell his works, so we thought we knew what we were in for.

Mick was eager to get inside, as he was carrying the wine for the apéritifs we knew was part of the invitation.

Once inside, we were blown away by not only the artwork of our new French friend, but by what we soon discovered was an amazing art collection that would sit well in any museum or gallery we have been to around the world.

And, what made this experience extra special was the private tour we had, with explanations about different pieces of art and their origins, and also hearing about the history behind the full collection, which is privately owned by our friend.

We felt very privileged to have been able to experience this exhibition and honoured to have been invited in the first place.

After the tour, we sat an enjoyed a glass of the local Blanquette de Limoux and some small nibblies our friends had prepared.

This definitely proved to us that one never knows what exciting experiences are around the corner. You just be open minded and grasp opportunities as they arise.