Paris Welcomes Olympic Spirit Through Street Art
Paris is embracing the vibrant and creative spirit of the Olympics with nearly 30 colorful street art pieces adorning metro station walls, a billboard at the airport, and city hall. These unique artworks capture the essence of Paris and nearby host cities in anticipation of the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Renowned street artists from around the world, including New York native JonOne, have contributed their work to this initiative. Their pieces can be seen on train stations, airports, taxis, digital screens, and billboards throughout the city. The selection of artists was part of a campaign by Visa to support small businesses, promoting a diverse and inclusive representation of creative talent.
JonOne, who is considered a pioneer in the street art world, emphasized the energy and cultural exchange of the Olympics as an inspiration for his artwork. His graffiti, displayed prominently at the Palais Royal–Musee du Louvre station, reflects a blend of abstract expressionism and vibrant colors.
The open-air exhibition curated by urban art expert Nicolas Laugero Lasserre aims to showcase the connection between art and sport, highlighting the values of tolerance, openness, and self-improvement shared by athletes and artists alike. The artworks capture the essence of Parisian neighborhoods and the dynamic atmosphere of local businesses and cafes.
De Bona, a Parisian artist, expressed her pride in representing France through her artwork and the positive transformation of street art in the public eye. She believes that street art serves as a bridge between traditional art spaces and everyday life, bringing creativity and expression to a broader audience.
The exhibition, featuring original works by artists from diverse backgrounds, will remain on display until September 8, inviting visitors and locals to discover the vibrant and dynamic world of Parisian street art. As JonOne envisions, perhaps one day art will be reintroduced as a competitive element in the Olympics, recognizing the skill and determination of artists as akin to athletes.
For more information on the Paris Olympics, visit AP Summer Olympics.
Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without permission.