THE GUIDE MUSEUMS 2019


Musée du Louvre 1st arrondissement, Paris The Louvre is many things: an eternal icon of the Right Bank, the most visited art museum in the world and, with its shimmering glass Pyramid, a favourite backdrop for snap- happy tourists. Its world-famous collection includes Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, Eugène Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People, and the Venus de Milo. Its 380,000 other exhibits can’t be viewed in one week, let alone a day – so you’ll need to slot in repeat visits if you want to see it all! Just know you’ll be in good company: last year the museum welcomed a whopping 10.2 million visitors. www.louvre.fr


Musée de Normandie Caen, Calvados Normandy’s heritage centre ticks all the boxes. Firstly, it’s housed in the illustrious Château de Caen, built in 1060 by William the Conqueror and today a


The attractions of the Louvre are manifold, but Paris, and France, has more to offer


worthy monument historique. Secondly, it explores a wealth of subjects from antiquity to artisanal crafts; religion to relics. Fancy a peek at local lace, or rare archaeological finds? This is the place. Thirdly, a lively summer programme – featuring re-enactments and hands-on antics for the youngsters – makes now the perfect time to


go. Entry is free with a Pass’Murailles, if you are under 26, or if you can arrange to go on the first weekend of the month. www.musee-de-normandie.caen.fr


Musée Somme 1916 Albert, Somme


The Battle of the Somme cost one million lives. There’s no skirting the issue: World


War One is a heartbreaking cautionary tale founded on immeasurable tragedies. Ducking into the subterranean Musée Somme 1916 is a sobering experience for sure, only emphasised by the dark alcoves and faux trenches, but there’s also an element of intrigue and whimsy in these tunnels. The museum works exceptionally well as an educational day out: families can follow in the mud-laden footsteps of the soldiers, observe various recreated scenes, and pore over the collection of helmets, uniforms and weapons before embarking on the Remembrance Trail. www.musee-somme-1916.eu


CURIOUS You’ve conquered the classics, mastered the must-sees, and are now ready to try something a little different – but where to start? Well, we’ve done the hard work for you. Following on from here is our round-up of


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Matthieu Gounelle, astrophysicist


Alexandra Roussopoulos, painter


4 days of incredible encounters by inspirational creatives.


Caroline Magre, graphic designer


“Rediscover the urge to indulge in moments of


Julien Magre, photographer


pleasure, to discover other worlds, to experience other practices whether they be intellectual, linguistic, artistic or culinary”


Pascale Moretti, chef


T


Joel Person, artist


Elisabeth Bettencourt, French teacher


L’Emploi du


he concept of « Emploi du Temps » revolves around 4 days of encoun-


ters governed by the pleasure of learning and sharing. Created by four personalities from various backgrounds (art, graphic design, astrophysics), it proposes a unique experience that aims to rediscover the urge to indulge in moments of pleasure, to experience other practices whether they be intellectual, linguistic, artistic or culinary. We wish to recreate the Parisian spirit of salons when, in the 18th century, quality people would meet and discuss current


affairs in politics, science, literature or art, in an atmosphere of freedom and curiosity. Our conversations will take place in the language of Molière, including several workshops specifically directed towards the further study of French language. Each encounter will lead to discussions, shared readings, screenings, talks as well as visits of artist studios or exhibitions. Artists, scientists, filmmakers, illustrators, writers, photographers, graphic designers will all be possible contributors, depending on the theme that is chosen, falling within varied fields such as art, research,


literature, cinema, theatre, or dance. Food will be celebrated with daily picnics and a closing dinner party prepared by the chef Pascale Moretti. Te making of such a space for exchange nevertheless requires organisation. Tat is, a timetable («emploi du temps» in French), although this term should, of course, be approached with humour and tenderness— the tenderness of a joyful return to childhood and to its learning environment. A timetable that is slightly off-beat, so that everyone can get out of the frame with joy and depth.


Temps


First session: Tuesday 12 to Friday 15 November 2019, 16th A, Paris.


Four days workshop : 2400 euros / 8 guests maximum


More info & brochure: contact.lemploidutemps@ gmail.com


144 ❘ FRANCE TODAY Aug/Sep 2019


IMAGE © AC ALMELOR


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