The first talk of the year offered by the History, Heritage and Local Traditions association of Saint-Denis-en-Val, was dedicated to Pierre Aveard, known as “Little Pierre”.
Jean-François Raffestin, president of the Petit Pierre club, retraced the life and fame of this extraordinary character. Born with Treacher Collins syndrome, a rare genetic disease which affects the bones of the face and which notably disrupted his speech, Pierre Allezard demonstrated boundless ingenuity and creativity. Fortunately preserved, his ride, a fantastic universe made with recycled materials, still bears witness to this at the Fabuloserie, in Dicy (Yonne).
The story of Petit Pierre has universal significance. It has inspired a number of films, comics, videos and plays. His work of outsider art has been the subject of several exhibitions all over the world: France, Mexico, Spain, Argentina, Chile, Russia, Taiwan…
In 1980, Emmanuel Prot, directed Little Peter awarded the César for best short film. And yet, when Jean-François Raffestin created the club in 2020, he noticed that Pierre Avezard was forgotten in Loiret, between Vienne-en-Val, Jargeau and Fay-aux-Loges, the places where he lived.
-Since then, thanks to the club, in connection with the Fabuloserie and the family, Pierre Avesard has regained the notoriety he deserves. The nursing home and a street in Fay-aux-Loges bear his name, the bicycle loop no. 19 between Jargeau and Vienne-en-Val is called, “In the mechanics of Petit Pierre”. Not to mention the numerous conferences, exhibitions and educational activities throughout the department.
The story of Petit Pierre is a real life lesson. It encourages people to accept difference, show creativity and transform obstacles into opportunities.
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