13-08-2009-
In the gardens of the Ecole Supérieure d’Art Plastique two trees are adorned with giant glass pearl necklaces, which beckon you to come and discover six sculptural installations by Jean-Michel Othoniel. Immense blown glass pearls mounted onto dream-like necklaces blend in with the natural setting or soar up into space, unveiling the talent of this young French artist, one of the most prominent on the international scene.
In 2000, he was commissioned for the metro station Palais Royal – Musée du Louvre, which he transformed into the Kiosque des Noctambules, a kiosk for night revellers. For the exhibition “Crystal Palace” in 2003 at the Cartier Foundation and at MOCA in Miami, the artist asked glass blowers in Murano and Marseille to create strange sculptures half-way between objects and architecture. He has also asked to showcase his work at the “Contrepoint” exhibition at the Louvre where he set his monumental works, including Rivière Blanche, against Mesopotamian statues and reliefs. This year, Jean-Michel Othoniel is also exhibiting his work at the Emmanuel Perrotin Gallery and the Venice Biennial.
Organised by the Monaco Project for the Arts, “Un coeur de verre” foreshadows a series of exhibitions that will take place every year as part of the cultural activities of this new association. Created in December 2008 by Rita Caltagirone, the aim of the Monaco Project for the Arts is to link art and education tightly together. It is supporting Jean-Michel Othoniel’s work with the publication of a book “Un coeur abstrait” which is on sale at the exhibition. Videos will also give visitors the opportunity to discover the artist’s work and development.
Ecole Supérieure d’Arts Plastiques de la Ville de Monaco
1, Avenue du Pin
Until 30th August from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Le petit collier rouge, 2008 - Verre de murano 80x38x10 cm Photo : Luc Castel
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