Iconic Oscar Niemeyer Building Plays Host to Surreal Installation
Andreas Angelidakis brings Athenian nightlife vibes to Paris.
Paris’ Espace Niemeyer has been used by plenty of high-profile designers in recent years, from Stella McCartney, to Ye, when he presented Yeezy Season 8 there back in 2020. Now, it has been transformed into a playground of towering exhibitions and playful installations from Greek artist Andreas Angelidakis.
The “Center for the Critical Appreciation of Antiquity” show marks the artist’s first solo presentation in Paris, and his biggest and most ambitious artwork to date. Commissioned by Audemars Piguet Contemporary, it takes its inspiration from themes relating to layers of Greek culture, and how it is consumed around the world. “The artwork’s multiple layers integrate architecture, archaeology, pop culture, night life and mass tourism—and wink at the artist’s own personal history,” the gallery explains.
In reference to his work, Angelidakis often refers to himself as an “architect who doesn’t build”. The statement rings true when you take a look at this installation in particular, with details including a monumental Ionic column printed onto fabric and hanging from scaffolding, and a shipping container made of wood and printed fabrics. Elsewhere, sculpture, furniture, and even life-size books are scattered around the space. Unusual for an art show, all are designed to be touched and moved. Book pages can be turned, while armchairs (appearing as columns) can be sat on.
The show also includes digital works in the form of video projections, which are used to cast a “mystical ambiance” around the space in reference to Athenian nightlife. “The darkened space and spotlight on the column more closely align with the atmosphere of a night club, further deconstructing contemporary art practices and the traditional display of artworks within a brightly lit white cube,” the gallery adds.
Critical Appreciation of Antiquity is on show at Espace Niemeyer until October 30. Elsewhere, cycling label Pas Normal Studios has thrown open the doors to its new headquarters in Copenhagen’s Nordhavn district.
