Jérôme Sans . Julian Opie

Julian Opie
Station de métro Porte de Clichy

Urban development Curator

Curated by Jérôme Sans, the artist Julian has been commissioned to design the heart of the new parisian metro station: Porte de Clichy

Inaugurated in 2024 - ‘Promenade dans le métro’ - A project by Julian Opie

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Julian Opie captures images of individuals in public spaces in diverse locations worldwide, as part of his artistic endeavors. From this material, he has created a comprehensive and intricate composition, which he has entitled a 'Promenade dans le métro'. The result of a play on the layout of the space and its transparencies is the intermingling of four rows of people, arranged on different walls.

By employing everyday terminology, Julian Opie prompts reflection on the manner in which we perceive and interpret the world. His creative process draws upon a diverse array of sources, including ancient sculpture, Egyptian hieroglyphics, Japanese woodcuts, as well as contemporary visual elements such as signage, information panels and road signs. Through this multifaceted approach, he engages in a dynamic interplay between modern, refined visual conventions and the enduring principles of art history

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“As I traverse the urban landscape, I am struck by the sensation of being part of a vast, collective human movement. Upon pausing to observe the crowd, it becomes evident that there are discernible details and distinctions, such as the presence of a scarf, a voluminous shopping bag, tattoos, lengthy hair, and a form-fitting jacket. Each individual appears to embody an archetype, akin to a symbol, yet distinct in their own right. My attention may be focused on a single individual or dispersed across the broader movement of the crowd.”