designboom · Creativity & design

Louvre-Lens Exhibition Explores the Art of Cuteness

The Louvre-Lens presents "So Cute! The Art of Happiness," examining how artists and cultures have created and utilized 'aww' from antiquity to the present.

The exhibition features around 300 works, exploring why certain shapes evoke affection. It juxtaposes ancient art with pieces by Géricault, Jeff Koons, and Cindy Sherman, viewing cuteness as a shifting concept.

A section traces Japanese kawaii culture's origins and visual vocabulary. It also examines the historical use of pink and how innocent visual codes can be used for persuasion or critique.

The show investigates the darker side of cuteness, using soft toys for memory and critique. It concludes with works re-interpreting masterpieces with glitter and drag aesthetics.

The scenography creates a dreamlike environment with rounded shapes and tactile materials. It incorporates interactive elements like a wheel of emotions and a 'Symphony of Emotions' room.

The scenography emphasizes sustainability, using reused materials. The exhibition runs until January 18, 2027.

AI-samenvatting op basis van de bron.