LES CONVERSATIONS SOUS L’ARBRE

Established in 2023 by the Domaine de Chaumont-sur-Loire, the Centre for Reflection on Arts and Nature builds on the cultural initiative undertaken here, centred on heritage, creativity, gardens and the landscape. It provides a space where the major issues relating to nature and living organisms can be explored from a variety of perspectives.

The ‘Conversations under the Tree’ series brings this ambition to life. At each event, four prominent figures — scientists, philosophers, writers, artists or researchers — come together to explore a shared theme. Over the course of two days, their knowledge, experiences and perspectives interplay through a series of lectures, a round-table discussion and informal exchanges.

Through the quality and diversity of the talks they host, the Conversations, season after season, are forging a vibrant and intellectually challenging forum for thought. Supported by *Philosophie magazine*, *Pour la Science*, the CNRS, the Fondation de France and the Fondation Malatier-Jacquet, they contribute to the Domaine’s reputation as a centre for both reflection and creativity.

SEAWEED: A GIFT FROM THE OCEAN

Algae, which have existed for hundreds of millions of years, shape remarkably rich underwater landscapes, support a wealth of biodiversity and play a part in maintaining the planet’s major ecological balances. Although they have long remained hidden from our view, they nevertheless tell an essential part of the story of life.

Biology, artistic creation, biotechnology and ocean-related issues: four leading figures will bring their perspectives together to highlight the diversity of these organisms and explore the role they might play in future transformations.