Experience Kimsooja’s ‘To Breathe – Constellation,’ a monumental mirror installation in Paris that inverts the Bourse de Commerce, creating an ethereal space.
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An Ethereal Transformation of the Bourse de Commerce Rotunda
As part of the exhibition “Le monde comme il va” at the Bourse de Commerce in Paris, South Korean artist Kimsooja presents “To Breathe – Constellation.” This monumental art installation design utilizes a vast mirror covering the floor of the Rotunda, creating an ethereal experience for visitors. As one approaches the mirror, the architecture and the surrounding world are reflected and inverted, with the sky seemingly opening up beneath one’s feet. This captivating effect blurs the boundaries between the physical space and its reflection, prompting contemplation on the relationship between the self and the surrounding environment.
Exploring Identity, Borders, and Memory Through Art
Beyond the Rotunda, Kimsooja’s artistic exploration extends to the Passage and the museum’s lower level. Twenty-four display cases showcase a curated selection of her works and video installations, delving into her recurring themes of identity, borders, memory, exile, movement, and weaving. These themes are central to Kimsooja’s artistic practice, which often employs everyday gestures like sewing to evoke profound questions about individual and collective experiences in a globalized world. Her art installation design serves as a platform for reflection on these fundamental aspects of the human condition.
The Artist’s Vision and Nomadic Journey
Kimsooja’s artistic vision is rooted in the belief that art should be like water and air—essential elements that cannot be possessed but can be shared universally. Since the late 1970s, her work has gained international recognition for its ability to create profound and universal experiences for viewers. Describing herself as a “cosmopolitan anarchist,” Kimsooja embraces a nomadic lifestyle, metaphorically using her body as an anonymous presence that navigates the fabric of the world. Her art installation design reflects this nomadic spirit, inviting viewers to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and reflection.
The Mirror as a Tool for Reflection and Connection
The mirror in “To Breathe – Constellation” serves as a central metaphor in Kimsooja’s art installation design. It functions as a replacement for the body, observing and reflecting the other. As viewers engage with the mirror, their gaze acts like a sewing thread, weaving through the depths of their own selves and the realities of others. This intricate interplay fosters a sense of connection and understanding, highlighting the interconnectedness of human experiences. The mirror becomes a catalyst for introspection, encouraging viewers to confront their own identities and contemplate their place within the larger world.
Visitor Experience and Practical Considerations
To fully immerse themselves in Kimsooja’s art installation design, visitors are required to wear overshoes to protect the mirrored surface. Skirts are not recommended due to the reflective nature of the floor, and stilettos are strictly prohibited to prevent damage. These practical measures ensure the preservation of the artwork and allow visitors to engage with the installation without distractions. The experience of walking on the mirrored surface, surrounded by the inverted reflections of the Rotunda, creates a unique and memorable encounter with Kimsooja’s artistic vision.
Project Information:
Architect: Kimsooja
Area: Rotunda of the Bourse de Commerce
Project Year: 2023
Project Location: Bourse de Commerce, Paris, France
Project type: Art Installation
Photographer: NA
