Sara Mitra’s Bon Voyage: Passer Un Bon Weekend

Paris is a city for art lovers. I feel lucky to say that visiting world famous museums is my new pastime.

Over the weekend, I visited the Centre Pompidou an architectural anomaly known for its high-tech design of plastic tubes and colorful piping on the outside of the building. The Pompidou houses contemporary art galleries, theatre, cinema, and vast views of Paris—from the top floor I could see every important Parisian monument including Sacré Coeur, Notre-Dame, l’Hotel de Ville, and of course La Tour Eiffel. Each of these sparkled as I looked at my panoramic view of the city of lights.

The exhibits I saw were both intriguing and odd. The modern art movement was seen at its best with blank canvases and plastic blow up chairs. I appreciated the pieces that were intricately made designs from unlikely materials like bottle caps and coins. However, I was not amused by the video art that depicted an anonymous Muslim man’s chanting prayers. I do not understand how this could be labeled as someone else’s art? Here was a man just living his life. I wonder if this man knows that his singing is broadcast in Paris every day for thousands of people?

I have a strong interest in Arab and Muslim culture. As an Iranian-American, I am naturally drawn to learn more about my heritage. This led me to the Insitut du Monde Arabe, a museum devoted to the Middle East with various ancient artifacts including metalwork, ceramics, textiles, calligraphy, and carpets. Some of my favorites were the turquoise ceramic bowls from Iran and the carpets—whose woven patterns reminded me of the many carpets that decorate my home in Natick.

On a totally different note, my program took us out to the Cirque d’hiver Bouglione. I have never been to an American circus, but somehow I knew I was witnessing a French version. There were domestic cats jumping from pedestals and roller blading tricks straight from the 90’s. I did get to see tigers jumping through fiery hoops and men with clownish make-up. Overall, it was very entertaining. Je suis passée un bon weekend!