Place Igor Stravinsky Square in Paris, France

aris is a metropolis that has long had its recognizable symbol - the Eiffel Tower. As much as it is a limitation, it is also an incentive for authors, architects, and artists to try to surpass this symbol. Igor Stravinsky Square is a favorite place for a break and guarantees a good mood. In the heart of Paris, there is a square surrounded by "incompatible" buildings - the Gothic cathedral and the contemporary masterpiece of architecture - the Center Georges Pompidou. Both objects have personal characters that do not threaten each other.

“Place Igor Stravinsky” by CSprotte is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

The square demonstrates the geological (spontaneous) approach to the formation of the urban fabric in its full glory. The blog "Art of Contrast" pays special attention to this square in Paris as the basis of the principle of using contrast.

“Paris walk 2010” by jojof is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Symbols of time

The two visually contrasting buildings form the square. The modern Center Pompidou and the cathedral in the Gothic architectural style, at first glance, have nothing in common.

The concept of the exposed supporting structure, visible on the facades of both buildings, is a common point. The difference is in the materials used. Traditional hand-hewn stone versus industrial product-metal structures. Lacy stone pillars, buttresses, and eaves from the past have been replaced by a system of constructions, accurately calculated in the offices of the 20th century.

Center Bouburg, the Pompidou Center is called, went one step further and exposed the lines of technical installations to public view. This was not considered a quality until this project. However, a specific industrial look was achieved in this way. It is this appearance that the Center is running for the equal symbol of the city as the Eiffel Tower.

Both objects place art in focus. The Center into the museum galleries creates a space for contemporary art. Cathedral traditionally uses art - as a visual presentation of biblical themes.

Both buildings represent symbols, and achievements in engineering and are the center of a gathering of citizens of their time.

It seems they have more common characteristics than one might initially perceive.

Igor Stravinsky Square is the essence of contrast

“Le Serpent (the serpent)” by rjhuttondfw is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

“Fontaine Stravinsky (2/3)” by gadl is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.

In this square, there is the Stravinsky fountain, which confirms the concept that every time has its artistic expression. Without any intention of fitting in, two famous sculptors created a modern symbol of Paris. However, the fame and recognition of this fountain is at the world level.

The design of the Stravinsky fountain was offered to the Swiss sculptor Jean Tuinguely. He is known for his kinetic sculptures, with a distinctly technical design. Its metal, black constructions move and create their sounds - music.

However, he insisted that his wife- Nicki de Saint Phalle, be included in the project. This sculptor's recognizable artistry is the complete opposite of Tuinguely.

The contrast is demonstrated at first glance in the duality of the fountain design. On one side, Tuinguely with his black, metal, technical sculptures, and on the other, Nika's cheerful, colorful, hand-sculpted sculptures. Together, they create this masterpiece that causes visitors to smile and a child's sense of happiness. Fictional machines without a useful purpose and phantasmic forms create dynamism and movement. It wakes up the sleeping Gothic cathedral and the surrounding buildings with the noise of sprinklers and the sound of metal.

“Place Igor-Stravinsky (150)” by C. B. Campbell is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

Movement, color, sound

In contrast to the religiously dogmatic mood evoked by the cathedral, a completely informal fountain installation was installed. The splashing of water without any elegance, reduced to a game, delights and makes this fountain one of the most famous in the world.

This artistic couple seems to have correctly concluded that joy is the source of life. That could be the working title of this fountain.