Château de Hauteclaire: Three Weavers' 60-Year Legacy Prepares for Public Opening

Located in Ports-sur-Vienne, Indre-et-Loire, the Château de Hauteclaire has housed the atelier de la Martinerie since 1966 and is now being readied for its public debut by Ségolène Girard, who is both a conservator-restorer and the founder-president of the fonds de la Martinerie. After meeting the three weavers, Girard relocated to the château a year ago. The atelier was established in 1956 by Pat Gaillard, Michèle Bourron, and Jacqueline Hureau, the latter being the last surviving member at 91 years old. The extensive collection features over 1,000 jacquard tapestries and 300 paintings. Restoration is urgently needed, with plans for public access by 2030. The château will welcome 700 visitors on October 17 for the Ar(t]chipel festival, with an exhibition scheduled from October 15, 2026, to March 14, 2027.