The Enchanted World of Niki de Saint Phalle
By Marina Rybak
A morning walk along midtown strip of Park Avenue is hardly a meditative stroll during the week. Usually I am drenched in the rush hour buzz all around me. But it is not the experience now, at least until November.
Les Baigneurs
The art exhibit in the open air has changed Park Avenue vibe. All the city noises and distractions recede when I come face to face with the beautiful, colorful, whimsical, sculptures of Niki de Saint Phalle. The works of prominent French-American artist stretch from 52nd to 60thstreet. There are nine gigantic sculptures in total, made of polyester resin with mosaics of ceramic, mirror and stained glass.
Les Trois Graces
Among them there are sculptures of voluptuous women, towering over the avenue – “Les Baigneurs” (The Bathers), “Nana on the Dolphin” (Nana literally means a “broad”or a “chick”) and “Les Trois Graces” (Three Graces), What an exuberant celebration of female form in such vivid expression!
Nana On The Dolphin
If you are in NYC, it is worth coming here in the early hours. Escape the urban concrete and ascend into this enchanted world. See the full exhibit. The bright splash of Joy that emanates from these sculptures will make your heart sing, will raise your spirits high, will get your creative juices flowing and send you smiling to have a glorious day.
Enchanted is the right word for Niki De Saint Phalle’s World!
Such fun and so colorful. Nice change from all the usual street scenery. Eye candy and so whimsical. I was a little surprised to find out that my name as my grandsons know me, is a ‘broad’ in French! LOL!
Très intéressant, tout ça!
What a great piece. Enjoyed it.