Notre Dame on fire

A series of new paintings by Paulin Paris

On view by appointment

Location : 13703 Cordary Ave, # 6 - 8, Hawthorne, CA 90250 USA

N.D. on fire #1 2022

Three years ago, the images of N.D. on fire went viral. For many, the drama unfolding in front of us was deeply moving. Watching the event from California, I could feel that an inner part of myself was touched. I decided to dedicate a series of paintings to the event. In a sense they are historical paintings, directly related to the day. They also represent a very painterly subject, as churches and cathedrals have been embraced by many artists over the centuries.

A mental space

The work opens a mental space where we re-experience the event, the fire ignites again, for us to ponder its meaning. When you look, something is in motion within yourself. Regarding the symbolic dimension of the fire, I’m choosing to see it as an ignition point, a time for the realization of new insights, into what was not seen before.

Notre Dame on fire painting

Notre Dame on fire # 2 60'“ x 72”

“Notre-Dame on fire” Project

I see this work as a starting point to something larger, that would include many artists from both continents. I would like to have the opportunity to present the “Notre Dame on fire” paintings for a public viewing. The paintings would be part of an exhibition presenting artworks connected to the event and the restoration of the Cathedral.

I envision the “Notre-Dame on fire” Project as a traveling show, from the US to France and back. There is a healing quality associated with the project, a way for the people to experience their connection with the event and reassess its meaning in their life. Art helps us to be more resilient, and to stay connected with each other and with oneself when times are difficult..

Regarding the location, for France, next to the cathedral or the Town Hall Place, would be the best, and a major cultural institution for the US.

Thank you for your attention, for your help and suggestions, your support can make all the difference.

Paulin Paris