The Louis Vuitton Foundation, located in Paris, France, is a contemporary art museum that was opened to the public in 2014. The stunning building, which is often referred to as the “Glass Cloud,” was designed by the renowned architect Frank Gehry. The foundation was commissioned by Bernard Arnault, who is the chairman and CEO of LVMH Moët Hennessy – Louis Vuitton SE.
Who is Bernard Arnault?
Bernard Arnault was born on March 5, 1949, in Roubaix, France. He is a businessman and art collector who has been the chairman and CEO of LVMH since 1989. LVMH is a multinational luxury goods conglomerate that includes brands such as Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior, Fendi, and Givenchy.
The Vision for the Foundation
Bernard Arnault’s vision for the foundation was to create a space that would showcase modern and contemporary art while also serving as a cultural center for Parisians and tourists alike. His idea was to build a structure that would not only house artwork but also be a work of art in its own right.
The Design
For this ambitious project, Arnault turned to Frank Gehry, an architect known for his innovative designs and use of unconventional materials. Gehry’s designs often incorporate elements of deconstructivism – an architectural style that challenges traditional notions of form and function.
Gehry’s design for the Louis Vuitton Foundation features a series of white sail-like structures made from glass panels that are held together by steel beams. The glass panels give the impression that the building is floating on water – an effect enhanced by its location in Bois de Boulogne park.
The Challenges
The construction of such an unconventional building came with several challenges. Firstly, it required 3D modeling to be done on each panel, and then each panel had to be fabricated individually. Secondly, the building’s location in a park meant that its construction had to be carefully managed to minimize the impact on the surrounding environment.
The Opening
The Louis Vuitton Foundation opened its doors to the public in October 2014. The museum’s collection includes works by contemporary artists such as Jeff Koons, Olafur Eliasson, and Takashi Murakami. In addition, it has hosted exhibitions by renowned artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat and Egon Schiele.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Louis Vuitton Foundation is a testament to Bernard Arnault’s vision for a cultural center that would showcase contemporary art while also being a work of art in itself. Frank Gehry’s “Glass Cloud” design has been widely praised for its innovative use of materials and stunning visual impact. Today, the foundation serves as an important cultural hub in Paris and continues to attract visitors from all over the world who come to admire its unique architecture and impressive art collection.