The Versailles Castle in France is one of the most beautiful royal monuments of France. This castle was the home for several kings like Louis XIV, Louis XV and Louis XVI and today when we think of France, we think of the Eiffel Tour and Versailles (the monarchy). The art we find in this castle represents well the time of the monarchy, and their lifestyle. Among the types of style we find the Classic style and Baroque style, and some imitation of the Greek mythology. We don't think of modern art because Versailles itself represent history thanks the antique architecture.
I had the opportunity to visit Versailles on Fri, Dec 19, 2008 and to my surprise several things have changed. I was glad to see how beautiful it look from the outside. As I entered I saw a extra room that was built to check-in. An extra service is also offered, they take your extra bags (if you are bringing you own good), and baby strollers, etc. I liked it because I had brought food and my bag was heavy and this way I had the opportunity to enjoy the visit without the extra weight. Once inside the castle I discovered Jeff Koons' art. I had no idea who this person was and yes I asked to the tourist guide about this artist and they gave me a pamphlet with his biography. The art exposed inside th
e castle had no relation with Versailles antiquity. The audio guide I had explained the relations between modern and classic art... I just couldn't believe it!Among Koons' art exhibitions I saw a giant balloon dog (in metal), Michael Jackson and bubble
s the monkey along with the pink panther. I ask, how is this relevant to Versailles art?. Michael Jackson in Versailles, who's idea was to exhibit this? I'm not denying the beauty of Jeff Koons' art, but the Versailles Castle was not the right place for it.Two days earlier, while visiting the Louvre I've seen a group of people protesting about culture and how french people shouldn't forget about it. I didn't understand what was going on, but after seeing the art of Versailles I see why french people might be worried about their culture (culture is history). Jeff Koons is an American artist born in 1955, way after Louis XIV, Louis XV and even Louis XVI. Some of his work has been shown in Rockefeller Center and he also contributed a balloon flower shown at the 7 World Trade Center in New York City. He's a well known artist with great talent that has achieved a lot, but come on now, just because he is talented,he had to present his art in Versailles?. I don't agree with the decision made, and I find scandalous to see his art in a place like Versailles. We have to preserve culture in general and not disrespect it by comparing to modern art... I don't care how talented or well known the artist might be!
