Millions of people visit the Louvre each year to see classic works of art that are famous around the world. Along with the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre is often one of the first stops for newcomers to Paris who want to immerse themselves in traditional French culture. Now, the museum is breaking with tradition in order to present something a little more adventurous.
Wim Delvoye is a Belgian sculptor whose works will be invading both the Louvre museum and the Tuileries garden until September 17, 2012. His sculptures will stand in counterpoint to the museum’s traditional atmosphere.
At the Louvre, Delvoye’s pieces can be seen in the apartments of Napoleon III as well as in the Gothic galleries of the Department of Decorative Arts. Works can be found sitting atop ancient furnishings and placed along the staircase, demonstrating the clash between modern and ancient styles. What’s more, the pyramid encapsulating the entrance of the Louvre has been adorned with an 11-meter-long arrow, which hangs down from the inside peak. This corkscrew-shaped steel tower, named Suppo, provides an imposing welcome to all the visitors of the museum.
Around 15 extravagant works made of diverse materials, such as bronze and stained glass, are on display at the museum. Visitors can continue the journey by visiting one more of Delvoye’s sculptures, this one made of steel, displayed in the Tuileries garden right next to the museum.
It is not often that the Louvre reveals its playful side and shows that, despite how it may seem, Paris does not always take itself so seriously. Guests staying at the Hotel Louvre Marsollier should take advantage of the opportunity to catch this unique exhibit, which is just a few steps away from their hotel.