You may remember these gentle giants, exhibited at the Jardin des Plantes in 2021. These statues are back in Paris this winter: head to the Haussmann district and boulevard to admire the works of Michel Bassompierre, along the department stores. The Comité Haussmann Paris and the Galeries Bartoux present us the exhibition Fragile colossi.
From February 1 to March 31, 2023, in the streets surrounding the Boulevard Haussmann, eleven statues of bears and gorillas observe us. For this new exhibition, Michel Bassompierre has created an original work, four meters high! This bear standing on its legs, named"Le Mélèze", is the artist's largest sculpture to date.
With their rounded shapes and soft colors, these sculpted animals are as impressive as they are friendly. But the message behind these works is far less cheerful.
Through his work, the French artist draws our attention to these endangered large animals. These species are endangered, and their natural environment is threatened. Although they seem powerful and robust, these behemoths are undermined by a fragile ecosystem. By representing these species, Michel Bassompierre reminds us of their uncertain situation, urging us to act to preserve these beautiful and important animals.
By exhibiting these giants of the wild world in the heart of the chic 9th arrondissement of Paris, the artist is counting on a clash of cultures to raise awareness. " I am part of the nature lovers, who are in awe of life. Our duty is perhaps to share our sense of beauty to make others admire these wonders that they pass by without realizing it," he explains in a statement.
Don't miss this free and playful exhibition, to be admired outdoors, during your walks in the 9th district!
Also to be discovered in the open air :
Julien Marinetti’s giant sculpture exhibition on Avenue George V – video
A new and free open-air exhibition by Julien Marinetti expects you until March 16, 2023, on Avenue George V, by the Champs-Elysées. Let us go and discover the Juliogoths aka the contemporary artist’s colorful animals. [Read more]
Dates and Opening Time
From February 1st, 2023 to March 31th, 2023
Prices
Free
Official website
www.galeries-bartoux.com
Julien Marinetti’s giant sculpture exhibition on Avenue George V – video
