Jean Nouvel's Louvre Abu Dhabi is astounding the world
The Pritzker Prize-winning architect, Jean Nouvel has recently unveiled his highly anticipated, Louvre Abu Dhabi.
The museum, uncovered on the 11th of November, is the first of its kind in the Arab world. The Louvre Abu Dhabi is one of three world-class museums to reside on Saadiyat Island, opening first before the Zayed National Museum and the Guggenheim.
Architect Jean Nouvel was inspired by the concept of medina, thought-out to be the ancient quarter of many Arab cities. The museum will not only highlight cultural expressions of art but also bestow human stories across the world.
Inside, Nouvel constructed a silvery metal dome, reaching almost 600 feet, consisting of 7,850 stars, initiating a complex geometric pattern. As the sunlight disperses through the dome, a rain of light emerges reflecting the shade of swaying palm trees. The dome provides an experience for nearly all human senses. Visitors are able to feel the temperature change and visualize a play of light during their time spent under the dome.
Nouvel stated he wanted to reflect a strong symbol intertwined with a powerful spiritual dimension. The works of art and artefacts nestled within this Louvre encompass the entirety of human existence, with a gallery devoted to universal religions.
Louvel says he wanted to create an architecture that not only echoes the history of Arab architecture but further one that acknowledges universality. He aimed to create something that allowed people to get lost in the architecture in an attempt to pursue their own answers.
According to Louvel, his creation of the Louvre differs from the one situated in Paris. Rather than an element of the past, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is a reflection of civilizations today, emulating a sense of continuity and timeliness.
What deems to be most exciting for Nouvel, is the presence of different people, cultures and beliefs from around the world coming together under the same roof to experience some of the most profound works of humanity.
Image credits: Arch Daily
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