I have gone to this gym in Beaubourg for over a decade, and for almost as long, I have wanted to visit the famous l'Atelier Brancusi. Well, the atelier is literally right in front of my gym, and I have somehow missed this. One word: Adderall!
So I finally make it. The visit is a form of time travel, as the smallish building is an exact replica of the sculptor's actual studio. On his death bed he bequeathed his workshop and all its contents to the French government on one condition; that the Musée National d'Art Moderne recreate the studio as it had been in its original location near Montparnasse. The building stands separate from, but adjacent to the Centre Georges Pompidou, courtesy of architect Renzo Piano. What's more, admission is free. The building's pretty tiny and at first glance can seem disappointing if you are expecting a traditional museum experience, but the intimacy, and fact that you are basically visiting the sculptors studio, make up for the size.
As in my eyes, Brancusi is second only to Jacometti, this was quite a treat! I liked seeing how he worked. I got to eavesdrop on a very educated conversation regarding the sculptor and learned that upon arriving in Paris he was invited to work under Rodin, but left as to avoid being influenced by Rodin's style.
His geometrical silhouettes are so clean-lined and prudent and beautiful. He saw his atelier as part of the works and how they should be viewed. He wasn't wrong.
Place Georges Pompidou
Paris 75004
Metro: Rambuteau
www.centrepompidou.fr
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