Bohemian and Bourgeois in the same breath, Paris never ceases to amaze and impress. Frank Gehry's newest architectural work for The Louis Vuitton Foundation, is no exception.
Set in one of Paris' largest parks, the Bois de Boulogne, the Louis Vuitton Foundation art museum is something of a wonder. A structure to rival the Sydney Opera House, it is reminicent of a ship in a landlocked city.
The building itself is a modern structure of steel, glass and wood. And yet as modern as it is, it is still in line with all that is artistic and tasteful. It is no less Parisian than the Musée de Orsay or the Pompidou Center.
It's large glass 'sail' walls reflect the green of the park around it, almost becoming a part of the nature around it. The water rushing down the outside sculptural stairs creates a soothing acoustic that takes you out of the big city and prepares you for a creative journey. Never have I been so inspired by a building in and of itself. It is truly interactive as a structure and serves as a framework for the city of Paris itself, with views of the Eiffel Tower from it's upper decks. And yet as awe inspiring as the building itself is, once inside, the gallery spaces are humble and traditional, and leave you only noticing the artwork.
I do not believe I can properly express my experience of visiting the Louis Vuitton Foundation in words. I left truly inspired in a way I never imagined possible. And while not yet on the radar of most tourists (at least for the moment), it is definitely worth checking out.