The “Palais Royal” was built in the heart of Paris in 1628 by Cardinal Richelieu. This palace is particularly known for its main courtyard, a place of celebration and tribute to artists and their talents. This courtyard has been decorated since 1986 with columns created by the artist Daniel Buren. A total of 260 marble columns with black and white stripes have been intentionally cut out so that the public can climb on them, jump, play, declaim a text or strike a pose like a statue from antiquity. But here, it is not Parisians or tourists who stand on the columns, but actors from the famous Thai masked theatercalled Khon. This art combines music, vocal, literary elements, and incorporates dance moves and sparkling costumes. What is fascinating here is how this image seamlessly blends the two cultures through traditional art, contemporary art and classical art.
USEFUL RESOURCES:
- For more information on khon, the masked and danced theater in Thailand, please click here.