Urgent: Final Week for Landmark ‘Minimal’ Exhibition at Paris’s Bourse de Commerce – A Month of Events to Follow
Paris, France – Art enthusiasts, take note! The groundbreaking exhibition “Minimal” at the Bourse de Commerce – Pinault Collection is entering its final stretch. Closing its doors on January 19th, the show has captivated audiences since its autumn debut, offering a deep dive into the world of minimalist art. But the experience doesn’t end there – a dynamic program of events is planned throughout January and into February, promising a fitting farewell and a continued exploration of the movement’s legacy. This is breaking news for art lovers and a crucial update for anyone planning a visit to the City of Lights.
A Journey Through Seven Chapters of Refinement
Since opening, “Minimal” has presented a carefully curated journey through seven distinct chapters, showcasing the works of approximately fifty international artists. Icons like François Morellet, Dan Flavin, Agnes Martin, On Kawara, and Lygia Pape are represented, demonstrating the breadth and depth of minimalist expression. The exhibition isn’t just a display of static artworks; it’s a conversation, a challenge to perception, and a testament to the power of ‘less is more.’
Lucinda Childs and the Reactivation of ‘Street Dance’
Before the exhibition concludes, the Bourse de Commerce is hosting a series of parallel events that amplify the core themes of minimalism. From January 8th to 12th, the legendary American choreographer Lucinda Childs will reactivate her seminal 1964 piece, “Street Dance.” This isn’t a traditional performance; audiences will observe two dancers, Clara Lou Munie and Adam Chado, performing a six-minute routine within the bustling streets of the Les Halles district, viewed from a designated gallery window. On January 8th, Childs herself will participate in a conference with art historian Lou Forster, offering insights into the work’s historical context and enduring relevance. Rare archival footage of original “Street Dance” performances, loaned by the National Dance Center (CND), will also be on display.
Minimalism Beyond the Visual: Film, Music, and Sound
The celebration of minimalism extends beyond dance and visual art. A rare screening of Walter De Maria’s 1969 film, “Hard Core,” is scheduled for January 9th. Agnes Martin’s only film, the unfinished “Gabriel” (1976), will be shown on January 16th. These screenings offer a glimpse into the experimental spirit that characterized the minimalist movement, pushing boundaries and challenging conventional artistic forms.
Music takes center stage later in the month. On January 20th and 21st, visitors can experience a recreation of a 1974 concert by Japanese artist Yoshi Wada, featuring his unique “Pipe Horns” – instruments crafted from everyday objects. Wada’s work embodies the minimalist ethos of finding beauty and musicality in the simplest of materials. The month culminates with performances of La Monte Young’s “Chronos Kristalla from The Magic Chord x 4” on January 24th and 25th, accompanied by a captivating light installation by Marian Zazeela and Jung Hee Choi.
The Enduring Legacy of Minimalism: A Historical Perspective
Minimalism emerged in the 1960s as a reaction against the perceived excesses of Abstract Expressionism. Artists sought to strip away ornamentation and emotional content, focusing instead on the essential qualities of form, color, and material. While often perceived as austere, minimalist art is profoundly engaging, demanding active participation from the viewer. It’s a movement that continues to influence contemporary art, design, and architecture, and its principles of simplicity and clarity remain remarkably relevant in today’s complex world. The Bourse de Commerce’s exhibition serves as a powerful reminder of minimalism’s enduring impact.
The Bourse de Commerce’s “Clair-obscur” exhibition will open on March 4th, promising a new chapter in the institution’s commitment to showcasing innovative and thought-provoking art. For now, however, the focus remains on celebrating the legacy of minimalism and providing audiences with a final opportunity to experience this remarkable exhibition. Don’t miss your chance to witness this pivotal moment in the Parisian art scene.
For more information and to book tickets, visit www.pinaultcollection.com or www.boursedecommerce.fr.
