Contrast is the concept of the sculpture exhibition "Absurdity and Dreamlike" 2026, set up in a place close to Nice, on the Côte d'Azur, famous for the works of Jean Cocteau. He serves as a significant inspiration to many contemporary young artists, including Ali Cherry.
You can view his works inspired by Cocteau's legacy by clicking on this link.
In Villefranche-sur-Mer, the grounds of the Citadel showcase the intersecting visions of two contemporary artists, Joana Vasconcelos and Arne Quinze. This collaboration is conceptually reminiscent of the Igor Stravinsky fountain in Paris, which unites the contrasting artistic styles of Niki de Saint Phalle and Jean Tinguely.Learn more about this fountain by clicking on the link).
The Citadelle building features captivating architecture filled with surprises, hidden passages, and diverse environments. A stroll through the micro-gardens and stone piazzas sets the stage for the artistic spectacle that awaits. Hosting a joint exhibition featuring these two artists highlights the intriguing contrasts between their work.
Joana Vasconcelos and Haute couture
Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos (1970) is renowned for transforming traditional women's handicrafts into artistic masterpieces. Her oversized handmade creations exude feminine warmth. These works reflect the dedication of mothers, wives, and grandmothers who crafted items to enhance the beauty of their homes and clothing. The influence of this centuries-old tradition is palpable in her soft sculptures. They adapt to their surroundings, occupy the space, and help create a sense of home.
Joana’s choice of textile materials for her artwork elevated her presence in the top echelons of the fashion world. During the years 2025-2026, she presented the exhibition "Venus" at the PM23 Gallery in Rome. This exhibition celebrates women as seen through the eyes of renowned fashion designer Valentino Garavani, featuring textile and shimmering sculptures that were inspired by his iconic models. A few years prior to this haute couture event, Joana showcased her soft structures on the Dior runway. You can watch the entire show by following this link.
Joana Vasconcelos' second collection of sculptures features a selection of everyday objects that, through repetition, create unexpected shapes and artistic impressions. Absurdity is an essential element in these works, such as a boat adorned with traditional Portuguese facade ceramics. The ship's buoys are "beautified" with brightly colored household scrubbing brushes. Another striking piece is a stiletto shoe sculpture made from stainless steel pans and lids, which was displayed at Versailles. Additionally, the Venetian mask, crafted from baroque mirrors, stands out as one of her most recognizable sculptures.
Arne Quinze
Belgian artist Arne Quinze (born in 1970) is known for his large outdoor sculptural mega structures. One of his most famous pieces from the flower edition is titled "Lupine." Quinze sculpts using aluminum and employs heavy machinery typically associated with industrial work. His sculptures are characterized by noise, power, and a sense of controlled destruction. You can learn more about Arne Quinze's work by clicking on this link.
Contrast is an integral part of Arne Quinze's recent artistic work. His ceramic sculptures are shaped by human hands and complemented by aluminum pieces crafted by machines. In other notable works, he combines aluminum with Murano glass, showcasing a fascinating interplay between fragility and sturdiness.
One of his gentle images, with soft contrasts, was the backbone of Lancôme's 2025 Mother's Day campaign.
Contrast at the entrance to "Absurdity and Dreamlike"
We are going to discover the Absurdity and Dreamlike exhibition
As you walk through the stone arch, you will enter the piazzetta, which is adorned with vibrant magenta bougainvillea. Arne has captured this floral motif in his signature sculpture, crafted from aluminum and Murano glass.
Otvorena vrata u kamenom zidu pozivaju vas u prostor koji je osmislila Žoana Vaškonselš. Ženske niti nežnosti i topline ispredene su u hodniku i uvlače vas dublje u prostor. Mekani heklani cvetovi ukrašeni su svetlucavim lampicama. Sve izgleda sigurno i udobno kod Žoane Vaškonselš.
The final room is filled with a sound that resembles a heartbeat. In this space, Arne and Joanna combine all of their details into a stunning mega sculpture. It features luminous linear structures, Murano glass, aluminum flowers, fringes, and crocheted sculptures. This intricate and chaotic object is overwhelming and difficult to comprehend at first sight.
Structure demands your time and attention, but you cannot define it. It changes constantly, and every second is unrepeatable.
The three environments form a single logical unit that resembles a typical romantic relationship.
Examine the sculptures in the exhibition "Absurdity and Dreamlike" and discover the opposites intertwined within their structure.
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