La Cité International de la tapisserie d’Aubusson
Behind its monumental facade resembling a multicolor loom designed by graphic artist Margaret Gray, the 5.000 square metre (1.2 acres) venue boasts a museum with a « musée de France » labeled collection. The history of Aubusson tapestry goes back more than five centuries and is constantly being renewed. In 2009, Aubusson tapestry was recognized as Intangible World Heritage by UNESCO.
Aubusson, the magic of tapestry-making
In partnership with Ghibli studios, La Cité internationale de la tapisserie d’Aubusson will be starting a new project in 2021: a series of 5 large-scale tapestries inspired by 4 animation films by the famous Hayao Miyazaki. Monumental works woven between 2021 and 2023: both a technical and an artistic feat!
Hayao Miyazaki
Hayao Miyazaki, an international star born in Tokyo, Japan in 1941 boasts a profuse filmography in animation. At the turn of the 2000s, Miyazaki became famous in France and has been successful in passing on his love of nature and his concern about the state of the world.
Here are the woven scenes, introducing visitors to the artist’s imagination:
- Princesse Mononoke (5 m x 4,60 m) to be woven in 2022. This Miyazaki film came out in 1997 and questions the relationship between Man and nature.
- Spirited away (3 m x 7,50 m), end of project planned for mid-2022. No face’s banquet represents the confrontation between young Chihiro and No face’s quest for identity.
- The 2004 film, Howl’s moving castle (5 m x 5 m) and, Hauru’s fear (3 m x 5,60 m) to be launched in 2023. In Miyazaki's universe, the question of sedentary life, the metamorphosis of beings and the strength and courage of Woman (a central role in this work) are addressed.
- Nausicaa of the valley of wind (1984): a panoramic tapestry (2 m x 10 m). Its confection dates are not yet known. A presentation of an apocalyptic world.
An exhibition room is open to the public and presents the project, while the future tapestries are being woven and waiting to be exhibited. Visitors can also discover the models of the five scenes selected for the future exhibition. An exhibition that is meant to be exported and to participate in “La Saison de la France” (“The Season of France”) in Japan, scheduled from October 2021 to March 2022.
Learn more about the Cité internationale de la tapisserie Aubusson : a must-see !
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