2010: That was the year that was

A year ago I wrote a list of events and exhibitions to look forward to in 2010 (on the http://www.freepariswalks.com website), but were my choices the right ones? Although there was predictable success for some of the large exhibitions (particularly both Turner and Monet at the Grand Palais), it was in the architecture section that my selections were widest of the mark. Should this be surprising though in a discipline which often seems to be subject to late deliveries?

Here is an update on those choices.

Cité de la Mode et du Design
Although this was the only new ‘opening’ of the four I mentioned, it is still very much an empty shell. Although it looks quite spectacular alongside the Seine, particularly at night, the Cité de la Mode et du Design has been the victim of its awkward position near the Gare d’Austerlitz. Used mainly as offices for a French fashion institute, it does see the occasional event, but its suberb rooftop garden is still sadly underused. A situation that will change in 2011?

The Louise-Catherine
This old Salvation Army barge, redesigned partly by Le Corbusier in the 1930s as a shelter, was due to undergo renovations and be turned into a temporary sculpture by the architect Shuhei Endo. No ‘Springtechture’ metallic spiral has appeared, and no further communications on the subject have been made. A mystery for 2011…

Fondation Louis Vuitton pour l'art contemporain
The second Frank Gehry building in Paris wasn’t delivered, as previously expected, in 2010, but I went past the spot several times during the year and know that buidling is taking place! Situated in the Jardin d’Acclimatation in the Bois de Boulogne, expect the traditional Gehry showy-structure to slowly appear from the ground during 2011, before finally opening in late 2012.

Gaîté Lyrique
Previously a famous ‘opérette’ theatre, the Gaîté lyrique is being transformed into a centre for digital arts. This time the prediction was only a few months out, and the centre will finally be opening its doors on March 2nd 2011. Something to definitely look forward to this year!