- September 25, 2021
- Luis Carmona
In a serendipitous turn of events, our principal designer and founder, Juliana, was recently in Paris and happened upon the L’Arc de Triomphe art installation. Catching a glimpse of this temporary, once-in-a-lifetime work of art while in the development phase prompted us to share the moment. So let’s explore its origin and examine the provocative piece’s significance.
WHAT IS THE L’ARC DE TRIOMPHE, WRAPPED?
On display from September 18th to October 3rd in Paris, the Arc de Triomphe Is wrapped in 269,000 square feet of silver-blue fabric, and almost two miles of red rope. The creation is sewn into panels by Geo—Die Luftwerker, a German company that manufacturers hot-air balloons, and the entire project cost a whopping $16.5 million.
The Arc de Triomphe is a component of a larger plan to transform Champs-Élysées avenue into a walking-friendly public space. Severally surrounding streets have been temporarily closed to enjoy the scenery. The art installation can be viewed for free by pedestrians, however, tickets need to be purchased to enter the Arc and visit the rooftop. An interesting and humorous restriction, selfie sticks are not allowed in the pedestrian area and the monument.
WHO ARE THE ARTISTS BEHIND THE WORK?
The idea to wrap the Arc came from the late artists and couple, Christo and Jeanne-Claude. The two birthed the idea in 1961, however, like many of their other projects, the idea took decades to come to fruition. After 60 years, their vision has been realized posthumously. Christo and Jeanne-Claude are also recognized for other notable works including Valley Curtain and Surrounded Islands.
It was such a pleasure to see the art in progress. We hope all can explore this thought-provoking project, both in person and virtually.
