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Monumental Construction, an awe-inspiring piece of temporary artwork created by renowned French artist Olivier Grossetête, has become the centerpiece in Newcastle City Centre during the Novum Summer Festival in Newcastle upon Tyne, north-east England. The installation was photographed on August 12, 2023, captivating both locals and tourists alike with its unique design and composition.
Constructed from over 1500 individual parts comprised solely of cardboard boxes, Monumental Construction stands as an ephemeral tribute to both creativity and the transient nature of art. Grossetête’s creation demonstrates a masterful use of commonplace materials, transforming them into a profound expression of form and space. The artwork’s sheer size and intricacy belie the simplicity of its construction material, creating a tension between the mundane and the magnificent.
The temporary nature of the artwork adds to its intrigue and philosophical underpinning, for it is slated to be destroyed the day following its unveiling. This intentional destruction serves as a poignant reminder of the impermanence of existence, a theme often explored in contemporary art. It also emphasizes the conceptual beauty found in the fleeting and the fragile, forcing the observer to engage with the artwork in a conscious and present manner.
The presence of Monumental Construction at the Novum Summer Festival undoubtedly enriched the cultural landscape of Newcastle upon Tyne, offering a thought-provoking visual spectacle that will linger in the memories of those fortunate enough to witness it. Grossetête’s innovative approach to material and form showcases the endless possibilities of artistic expression and challenges traditional notions of what constitutes high art. His cardboard monument, while transient in its physicality, leaves a lasting impression and continues a dialogue that transcends the boundaries of conventional artistic mediums.