sculpture-bernard-venet-saint-denis

A 18-meter-high sculpture signed by Bernar Venet inaugurated in Saint-Denis

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The Editor

© Auriane Camus / Le Bonbon

Just a few days before the Olympic Games, the capital and its surroundings are still undergoing transformation. One example is the city of Saint-Denis, where internationally acclaimed artist Bernar Venet has been showcasing his monumental work since July 11th.

He's shown and continues to show his art all over the world: from Berlin to New York, even in his hometown of Le Muy in the south of France, and in Belgium, where his famous Arc majeur has stood since 2019, Bernar Venet's reputation speaks for itself. Just days before the Olympics, the French artist unveiled a new massive sculpture on Thursday, July 11, right next to the new Olympic Aquatic Center and the Stade de France. Its name? Convergence: 54.5° Arc x 14. A special spot for the Olympics It's no accident that Bernar Venet's latest piece is in Saint-Denis. This location is highly symbolic for the Olympics, as the sub-prefecture of the 93 will welcome the Olympic Flame on July 25 and 26 for the final stages. On the morning of the 26th, the flame will begin its journey at the Basilica of Saint-Denis, where the kings of France are buried, passing by the Olympic village, the Olympic Aquatic Centre, and the Stade de France, before reaching the Seine for the grand opening ceremony.

From its 18 meters high, the immense steel sculpture seems to rise towards the sky, like a flame caught by an invisible breath. It certainly does justice to the clean lines and bold geometric shapes that characterize Bernar Venet's minimalist and conceptual style. Once again, the artist plays with the curves that are so dear to him: twelve arcs of 54.5° exactly, hence the name of the work, forming a kind of tipi, similar to those used to start a campfire.


A new link between art and sport

Resulting from a partnership between the Greater Paris metropolis, presided over by Patrick Ollier, and the city of Saint-Denis, this artwork resonates art and sport once again, just days before the Olympic Games and fits perfectly into the context of the Cultural Olympiad. By placing Convergence: 54.5° Arc x 14 in front of the Olympic aquatic center, in a public space, Saint Denis not only hosts sporting competitions but also welcomes art to blend harmoniously with the sporting spirit. It offers high-level artistic alternatives, but also serves as a magnet for all contemporary art enthusiasts.

Convergence: 54.5° Arc x 14 by Bernar Venet is a stunning fusion of art and sport, bringing together two worlds in a harmonious and captivating way. Its towering presence and unique design make it a must-see for both athletes and art lovers alike.

rnar Venet 361, President Wilson Avenue - Saint Denis In front of the Olympic Aquatic Center