To mark the 10th anniversary of Domaine Piéblanc in Gigondas, Mathieu Ponson teamed up with photographer Grégoire Eloy for an artistic project titled "Two Steps from the Sky." This collaboration not only celebrates the vineyard but also explores deep philosophical themes about shelter and exposure, echoing existential reflections from thinkers like Nietzsche and Heidegger.
Ponson made a significant career shift from IT to viticulture, driven by a desire to reconnect with nature and creativity. His two domaines, Domaine des Crêts in Burgundy and Domaine de Piéblanc in the southern Rhône, were established simultaneously in 2014. Piéblanc derives its name from an ancient stream that flowed from Mont Ventoux, symbolizing Ponson’s commitment to his terroir. The estate encompasses three appellations, fostering a vibrant ecosystem that includes a variety of plants and wildlife, enabling the production of organic wines that reflect their unique climate and geography.
Ponson immerses himself in every aspect of his winery—from vineyard management to wine production. His approach emphasizes listening and respect for all contributions, which fosters a collaborative atmosphere. This ethos extends to his partnership with Eloy, whose photography shifts away from traditional wine imagery, capturing the essence of the vineyards and their surrounding landscapes through innovative techniques. Their project examines concepts of earth, sky, slope, water, and hand, each representing essential elements in the wine-making process.
Eloy’s background as a conflict photographer evolved into a focus on natural phenomena, emphasizing unseen dimensions of the world. His work at Domaine Piéblanc involved creating photograms—images developed without a camera—that revel in the relationships between elements in nature. This approach highlights the gentle yet intricate dance between earth and sky, encapsulating moments of beauty and wonder.
Ultimately, Ponson and Eloy’s project invites contemplation of our place in the world. By gathering insights from philosophy, nature, and human creativity, they celebrate the interplay of various elements that contribute to wine. This encompasses more than the product itself; it’s an acknowledgment of the cultural and personal narratives intertwined with the experience of wine and the earth from which it springs.
For more on Domaine Piéblanc and its unique philosophy, visit Domaine Piéblanc.