Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Mercredi at the Palais Royal III - Les Deux Plateau



One of Paris' most controversial  sculptures ( and there are plenty to choose from) is Les Deux Plateu.  Created by French artist Daniel Buren, it has caused a stir since its installation in 1985. It consists of 260 striped marble pillars.  The pillars have fallen into disrepair and at the artist's insistence ( hissy fit is more like it) there is currently a 3 million euro renovation taking place.  I was disappointed that I wouldn't get to have a field day photographing those columns from every angle to say the least.  As only the French can or would do, they have managed to make the surrounding safety wall look eye catching during the renovation process.  I found one "window" with clear plastic so I could get a few shots.  I'm thinking those cute soccer boys might have had some big fun in here in the past!




10 comments:

Julie said...

Great editorialising ... *grin* ...

Unknown said...

This is truly amazing! I've never heard of it before. Thanks, V.!

Rob said...

Only in Paris will you find construction barriers a work of art.

MadAboutParis said...

Leave it to the French...even their "under renovation" locations have interest and style. Great shots (as usual) Virg!
xx,
M

Virginia said...

The French have a flair and such a fabulous attention to detail! I wish I thought it would be finished by our trip. I would love some photos with Eva and Davis playing on those pillars!!!

PeterParis said...

Nice presentation!

As you say, it has been quite much a subject here whether these 3 million euros could not have been better used; especially other (jobless) artists have protested.

Virginia said...

Peter,
3 mill does sound like a lot of money for the renovation. In these hard times I am sure there are many who are disgruntled! Perhaps there will be a demonstration!HA I read where sadly to haul the whole thing off would cost almost that much. How do you say "a big mess" in French!

JM, Glad I could post something that is new!! Maybe you can visit on your next trip to Paris.

Julie, I couldn't help myself.

Jane Hards Photography said...

Nver mind the soccer boys I'd have fun. They do allow the photographer to use there imagination in France.

Ken Mac said...

you have a book here. Most definitely!

Virginia said...

KM,
Merci mon ami, but I think the world does not seek another book of Paris. However, maybe my children and grandchildren might like one. It's in the making. What a pleasure to collect my memories.
V