Le Corbusier’s “Cité Radieuse” (“The Radiant City”), in Marseille, is a place that has fascinated me for quite some time now. I have rarely seen a building that expresses such force and harmony (except perhaps the Taj Mahal, which, as I’m sure you would agree, has very little in common). I could have tried describing it to you, but nothing compares to seeing it in person.
The same could be said of the exhibition currently showing there… which is what I wanted to talk to you about today: “Défini, fini, infini – Travaux in situ” by Daniel Buren.
It inhabits the rooftop terrace of the “Cité Radieuse”, as curated by Ora Ito, for MaMo. Buren created seven monumental works, specifically designed for the singular setting. We find Buren’s trademark mirrors, lively colours, lines and geometry … And, of course, the way it all interacts with the site itself.
At every step, one’s perspective is constantly upset, the landscape becomes part of the works, as do the visitors. With all the mirrors, it is very tempting to find a good spot to take a few snapshots or selfies. I’m not the most talented for that, but, as you may have seen on Instagram, I did enjoy myself!
I’ve been to see this exhibition three times, and every single time, I was surprised. You see things differently, due to the shifting colour of the sky, the time of day, or the amount of visitors.
Given the success of the exhibition, it’s been extended until October 31. There is still time to go. And expect me to go back one last time before it’s really over…
[vimeo]http://vimeo.com/100332346[/vimeo]
MAMO – Centre d’art de la Cité Radieuse
280 Boulevard Michelet -13008 Marseille
From Wednesday to Sunday from 11 am to 18pm- Until October 31.
