P. CoussyHélène is a dedicated scientist and passionate about sharing her knowledge. A lecturer and researcher at the University of Montpellier, she teaches students in the Biological Engineering department at the Montpellier University Institute of Technology (IUT) and specializes in polymer science. Her research focuses on developing eco-design solutions for food packaging, promoting circularity and contributing to the reduction of food waste and plastic pollution.
Hélène is a founding member and president of theExhale association, which organizes the festival The Romantics à Saint-Roman-de-Codiereswhich she has supported voluntarily since 2015. Convinced that science and art must engage in dialogue, she defends the necessity of beauty to understand reality.
Find Hélène in the South Cévennes destination magazine, Wild Encounter issue no. 5
What is the Exhale association?
The Exhale association was created in 2015 in Saint-Roman-de-Codières, a small village perched on the Cévennes ridges in the Gard region. Our actions are guided by the desire to promote art and culture, making them accessible in rural areas and in connection with the discovery of natural and human heritage.
Our primary objective is to bring culture to the village, making it a unifying force for residents through the development of a dynamic network of encounters around innovative projects. We believe that universal access to cultural experiences, combined with the pleasure of coming together, is essential for building a more resilient and inclusive society. Exhale values its local roots, fostering a welcoming atmosphere while maintaining high standards of quality.
The main event organized by the Exhale association is the Les Romanesques festival. Since 2021, we have been developing a cultural season with an artistic program offered independently or in collaboration with other local organizations (Filature du Mazel, Elvis Platinés, Théâtre de l'Albarède, Collectif NU, Doc Cévennes, La Fabrique, etc.). Cultural events, cultural mediation workshops, and amateur practice sessions are offered within this framework.
What does the festival consist of?
The identity of the Les Romanesques Festival lies in the diversity of the arts offered, the emphasis on nature, all within an authentic, warm, and family-friendly atmosphere. The program is carefully selected to ensure that all forms of artistic expression in the performing arts are represented.
We champion quality and a multidisciplinary approach to the arts to foster discovery, bring audiences together, and encourage social and cultural diversity and exchange. The program's structure revolves around six pillars: aerial circus, classical music, a festive evening, botanical walks, heritage discovery workshops, and the promotion of emerging talent. The venues for their performances are superb: indoors in the church or the medieval tower, and outdoors in the market square, along the paths of the Pierre Plantée, or in the open-air theater. The festival also aims to be a place of celebration, enjoyment, and beauty.
Why choose Saint-Roman-de-Codières?
The choice of Saint-Roman-de-Codières for the festival was motivated by its extraordinary landscapes, offering breathtaking views of the Aigoual massif and Mont Ventoux. It was also an encounter with a village where human connection and a sense of community make things possible. A close-knit group and a supportive, friendly, and inventive steering committee enabled a rapid and enthusiastic mobilization of energy from the town hall and the residents.
They all share the conviction that access to culture must be a fundamental right. The open-air theatre is emblematic of the spirit of openness and hospitality that animates this community. This mindset is shared by all those who make this festival possible.
In 2025 the festival celebrates its 10th anniversary…
The 10th edition of Les Romanesques, from August 22nd to 24th, 2025, celebrates a participatory cultural project uniting St. Roman and three neighboring towns. Residents will create songs with Hervé Demon and Cécilia Simonet, which will be presented during the festival. For the first time, an equestrian vaulting show will be offered, thanks to Benjamin Grain's equestrian farm. The program includes aerial circus performances with Piano Rubato, street performances, botanical walks, and concerts, notably with Marianne Aya Omac and Namaz Pamous. The festival will begin on Friday evening with the theme "Soi-disant!" (So-called!), highlighting the event's enduring nature.
Do you have any places to recommend around the village?
I would recommend the hike to the Col des Fosses. It's a 2-3 hour loop starting from the Pierre Plantée. It passes by the Camp des Plots with its three granite menhirs, and offers a breathtaking view of the Aigoual massif.
