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Jeff Koons: when contemporary art becomes diplomatic
by Modem – Posted August 21 2019
© Modem

“A symbol of remembrance, optimism and healing” is Jeff Koons intention in this art piece which the installation began August 22nd.

Following the Parisian terrorist attacks in November 2015 that killed 130 people, Jeff Koons agreed with the Parisian maire, Anne Hidalgo and minister of Culture, Françoise Nyssen to instal it between the Palais de Tokyo and the Musée d'Art Moderne. This decision was suspended after a strong public disapproval:a letter signed by 23 people among which former French minister of culture, Frederic Mitterrand . They wrote: “Due to its visual impact, gigantism and situation, this sculpture would upset the present harmony between the columns of the Musée d'Art Moderne and the Palais de Tokyo and the view of the Eiffel Tower.” 

Gigantism... is the real issue to this 3.5 million dollar piece, as it is for most of Jeff Koons' outdoor pieces, but it seems to have never taken such drama and tension as for the Tulips: more than three years...

The polychromed bronze, stainless steel, aluminium and stone measuring more than 12 metres high will finally be placed in the municipal gardens just behind the Petit Palais.

© Modem