Travel Europe - Viaggio in Europa

ajwoods:

Ron Mueck, Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain, Paris

I first discovered Ron Mueck’s work at Belsay Hall in Northumbria a couple of years ago, and was instantly struck by the immense detail he puts into his hyper-real sculptures of figures and still life. By dint of that, this exhibition, presented by the ‘Foundation Cartier’ is an winner for all whether you have an interest in modern art or not. Just seeing his skilful mastery of the process will delight even the most reluctant of visitors.

A range of works are presented, with perhaps the highlight for me being the old couple under the umbrella. His larger works have more presence and the sheer scale of them means the viewer must navigate around the space to inspect all the little details, from the toenails, to the ear hair and the varicose viens. Although the people he depicts are all of very different stature they all possess a physical Mueck-esque quality with the facial features and postures often resembling his own, perhaps a product of the pain-staking hours he spends with each piece in his North-London studio.

Shown along side the exhibition is an hour long video of Mueck creating the works. Although mostly silent, it is extraordinarily interesting to start understanding the processes of Muek’s creations. 

The ‘Fondation Cartier’ is worth a visit even if you don’t go inside due to the architectural design and indoor outdoor feel of the place. Great glass and steel limbs jut out into the landscaped surround, temporarily transporting you from Paris to a surrealist future where city and jungle are one.   

Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain
261, Boulevard Raspail, 75014 Paris

Open every day, except Monday, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Tuesday until 10 p.m.)

Rates
Entrance fee: 9.50 euros / Reduced rate: 6.50 euros