Dynamo 2013: A Century of Light and Movement in Art at Le Grand Palais

Leave it to the French to come up with outrageous ways to create exhibitions in the timeless settings that exist throughout the city.  This latest at the Grand Palais is right up there with one of the best.

Dynamo 2013: A Century of Light and Movement in Art 1913 - 2013,  looks at taking the concepts of movement, light, absence and presence,  and applying them to a space, specifically, the interior and exterior of the Grand Palais.  The building, a magnificent example of Beaux Arts architecture built for the 1900 World's Fair, has been treated to abstract art installations from the last century to illustrate the exhibition's themes.  How does light and movement alter one's perceptions of a space?

Well, see for yourself.

What looks like circles superimposed on my photo are actually lights or lasers of some sort illuminating the columns on the exterior of the building. 

The same "faceted" illusion repeated in the inside. 

The fountains filled with smoke...illustrating the "absence and presence" changing from moment to moment. 

LOVED the exhibit.  You might end up scratching your head on some of what you see.  I know I did.  And I wasn't alone.  But, it is certainly worth checking out if you will be in Paris from now until July 22nd.  

Let me know what you think. 

H

DYNAMO. Grand Palais. Paris. May 2013. from Svetlana Tsikoza on Vimeo.

More Information:  The Grand Palais:  Dynamo 2013

Chagall: Between War and Peace

Chagall, l'exposition by Rmn-Grand_Palais

 "Chagall: Between War and Peace" is on view at the Musée du Luxembourg through July 21st.

I had the opportunity to see it over the weekend and was surprised by some of his works.  The pieces that come to my mind are those that are colorful, almost cartoonish or childlike, soft and loving.  The surprise for me were his darker works.  Influenced by both world wars, the Russian Revolution and living the life of an exiled Jew in the US, the weight of profound loss cast their shadows on his spirit and ensuing work.

The video is in French but I think does a great job showing the exhibition.  They didn't leave much out so you are practically right there!

Here's a link to notes about the exhibition in English so you can follow along.  Grab a cup of coffee, sit back and take a tour in one of the more intimate museums in the city of Paris.

H

A Little Roland Garros at Hôtel de Ville

Roland Garros s'invite sur le parvis de l'Hôtel... by mairiedeparis

Roland Garros taking the city by storm.