Go through the door

As Paris celebrates the work of Hector Guimard in 2024, teachers and visual arts professors from elementary schools in the City of Paris have guided their students in an inventive rediscovery of the legacy of the Art Nouveau architect and decorator *.

Brought together in an exhibition on the ground floor of the large hall of the Pavillon de l'Arsenal, the works carried out by students from the 25 participating schools exploring the famous metro entrances, the doors with lush arabesques and the elegant facades created by the 'artist. This exhibition offers the unique opportunity to rediscover the Parisian heritage left by Hector Guimard through the eyes of young students while celebrating the imprint of Art Nouveau in the capital.

Go through the door
From the simple wooden door to the carved doors loaded with symbols, doors also tell us stories and History. Object that offers a passage between two worlds, from the inside to the outside and vice versa. Drawings, paintings, volumes, photographs or videos, the productions of Parisian students open the door to a journey inspired by the work of Hector Guimard.

Parisian heritage
To carry out this project, the opportunity was offered to rediscover Parisian heritage. The creations bear witness to this and make particular reference to the Castel Béranger and the Hôtel Guimard.

The architectural element
The metro buildings and surrounds, as well as the Art Nouveau style windows and doors, shape the Parisian urban landscape that the students explored to create productions.

The vocabulary
The intertwining of curves, the whiplash line and the plant inspiration make up the aesthetic vocabulary specific to Art Nouveau. The students appropriated this language to express their personal vision.

Opening on Wednesday, June 19th at 7:00 p.m.