Louvre's New Islamic Wing
Jul 29th, 2005, 12:13 PM
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Louvre's New Islamic Wing
The NYtimes (7/28/05) reports that the Louvre has OK'd an expansion that will create a new Islamic Wing. The wing will actually be a filled in courtyard - the Cour Visconti. Most of the courtyard will be filled in and sport a roof that looks like a sail and made of tiny glass discs. A Saudi prince is giving $20 million dollars to the $69 million dollar project - with the French government funding more than half and the French gas giant Total about $4 million. Some say the roof will look like a flying carpet. The project promises to stir controversy over its contemporary architecture in the neo-Classic courtyard - much like previous renovations that started with Mitterands Grand Projects scheme to remake Paris with contemporary architecture as well.
Personally it's refreshing that the Louvre is changing with the times and not stuck in some old mold - a living museum. To me the IM Pei's pyramid entrance, much lampooned when it was announced, is a smashing success as is the renovated Cour Richelieu (I hope i have that right) - another courtyard covered over with lots of great sculptures in it).
Personally it's refreshing that the Louvre is changing with the times and not stuck in some old mold - a living museum. To me the IM Pei's pyramid entrance, much lampooned when it was announced, is a smashing success as is the renovated Cour Richelieu (I hope i have that right) - another courtyard covered over with lots of great sculptures in it).
Jul 29th, 2005, 05:21 PM
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To me Pei's pyramid is about as out as place as it can be. It isn't even very attractive on its own. Wish it had been successfully smashed by a brick or two.
What can one expect from people who found Jerry Lewis brilliant and think that slugs with shells are yummy?
Now velvet Elvises--that's real art for you!
But as ira said ....
What can one expect from people who found Jerry Lewis brilliant and think that slugs with shells are yummy?
Now velvet Elvises--that's real art for you!
But as ira said ....
Jul 29th, 2005, 05:56 PM
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I don't think the Pyramid has aged well. It always looks dirty to me.
I think the design was better than the execution, especially for the long haul.
About the Islamic art announcement, I'm interested myself. I am pretty ignorant, but recently had the thrill of visiting the outside of the Dome of the Rock, one of the more beautiful buildings I've seen in my life, and it makes me want to see and learn more.
I think the design was better than the execution, especially for the long haul.
About the Islamic art announcement, I'm interested myself. I am pretty ignorant, but recently had the thrill of visiting the outside of the Dome of the Rock, one of the more beautiful buildings I've seen in my life, and it makes me want to see and learn more.
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