The iconic lion sculpture by Richard Orlinski that has dominated Nice's Place Garibaldi will soon be replaced by a work from the late avant-garde artist Ben Vautier. The announcement was made by Nice Mayor Christian Estrosi, who revealed that the new installation will take place after Christmas, bringing one of Ben's signature pieces to the prominent public square.
The replacement artwork features Ben's emblematic inscription "art," a hallmark of the pioneering postmodern avant-garde artist whose distinctive round lettering has become synonymous with Nice's cultural landscape. Eva Vautier, Ben's daughter, expressed enthusiasm about the project, telling reporters "It's perfect and very pleasant!" The new sculpture measures significantly smaller than Orlinski's imposing lion, standing at 1.8 meters in height and 2.85 meters in width with a depth of seven centimeters.
Mayor Estrosi celebrated the cultural significance of the installation in a message posted on social media platform X, accompanied by a photograph of the late artist. "Long live culture that comes down to the street and that moves, troubles, makes people talk and react," the Horizons party mayor commented, emphasizing the importance of accessible public art that engages the community.
Ben Vautier's artistic legacy is deeply woven into Nice's urban fabric, with his characteristic rounded script adorning numerous streets, bus shelters, and hidden corners throughout the city. The artist, who was a key figure in the postmodern avant-garde movement, left an indelible mark on both the local cultural scene and the international art world before his passing.
The transition from Orlinski's monumental lion to Ben's more intimate "art" piece represents a shift from grandiose public sculpture to conceptual minimalism, reflecting the evolution of public art preferences and the city's commitment to honoring its homegrown artistic talent. The installation is expected to generate considerable public interest and discussion, continuing Ben's lifelong mission to bring art directly into people's daily lives.
