© Jardin du Luxembourg - Adrian Colin, Glass Artist by Claire Jachymiak, and Pochet du Courval by Caroline Bazin.
The artistry of glassmaking, with its fascinating craftsmanship dating back to Antiquity, takes center stage in an exhibition of 80 photos showcasing "Gestes Verriers" displayed on the gates of the Jardin du Luxembourg. 32 workshops, glassmaking houses, and training schools from various regions across France opened their doors to both professional and amateur photographers. The result? Mesmerizing images to admire for free during a chic stroll along the Left Bank.
From Glass to Art
Glassmakers are true multitasking professionals! They craft for industries ranging from perfumery and tableware to lighting, décor, jewelry, as well as for the chemical and pharmaceutical sectors. It’s no surprise that this remarkable expertise was added to UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2023. The "Gestes Verriers" exhibition was designed as a guided journey through the beauty and intricate craftsmanship of this art form.
This exhibition is a multi-layered artistic marvel: not only does it highlight the art of glassmaking, but it also showcases the art of photography, capturing fleeting moments of the creative process.
A Dazzling Display!
You may see some photos glowing like molten lava, illustrating the hot glassmaking techniques performed near furnaces reaching 1,450°C. Careful – you can almost feel the heat radiating from the images! These captivating works showcase artisans shaping molten glass, reminiscent of sticky caramel in texture. After the fire comes the water: cold-working techniques like cutting or engraving are done under a water jet to prevent the glass from breaking. Are you more into gilding or enameling? Take a close look at the pieces on display: the water appears like pearls on the glass and the artists’ hands. A true wonder…
Gestes Verriers at the Jardin du Luxembourg. From September 21, 2024, to January 19, 2025.
