The unveiling of the 'Salon' statue, created by American artist Alison Saar, marks a significant cultural moment for the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games. Inaugurated on June 23 in the Charles-Aznavour garden, this bronze and volcanic rock sculpture aims to foster a space for dialogue and meeting, embodying the humanist and peace values of the Olympics.
Alison Saar, a 68-year-old Californian artist, has been primarily interested in black female identity for 40 years. Her sculptures and installations often incorporate elements from diverse African, African-American, and Caribbean cultural traditions. Saar's work has been exhibited at renowned institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Whitney Museum in New York. 'Salon' is her first public space project outside the United States.
The 'Salon' statue features a large seated female figure holding olive branches and a golden flame, surrounded by six seats from various regions, including West Africa, Central America, France, China, and Europe. One of the seats is an antique symbolizing the origin of the Olympic Games. The arrangement, with the Olympic rings embedded in the ground, invites dialogue and exchange among cultures.
Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), praised the preparations for the Paris Olympics during the statue's unveiling. He emphasized the importance of celebrating the unity of humanity through the diverse cultures represented in the Olympics. Bach's presence underscored the statue's role in promoting peace and unity.
Alison Saar was chosen for this project by the IOC and the City of Paris due to her commitment to the humanist values of the Olympics and her desire to support local French craftsmanship. Her work on 'Salon' aims to break away from traditional representations and highlight the significance of African ancestry and female identity in public monuments.
- Alison Saar's choice to use reclaimed and natural materials in her sculptures underscores her dedication to sustainability and cultural heritage. Her works often reflect a deep connection to African, African-American, and Caribbean traditions, which is evident in the 'Salon' statue's design.
- The 'Salon' statue is not just a piece of art but a symbol of multiculturalism and unity, resonating with the Olympic spirit of bringing together different cultures in peaceful competition. The statue's elements, sourced from various parts of the world, highlight the global nature of the Olympics.
- The statue's location in the Charles-Aznavour garden, near the Champs-Elysées, places it at the heart of Paris, making it accessible to a wide audience. This central location aligns with Saar's vision of creating a space open to all, promoting dialogue and understanding among diverse communities.
