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Les Allégories de McCollum: A Modern Twist on Classical Sculpture

Discover vibrant replicas of historic statues at Les Allégories de McCollum in Montpellier, a public art installation that bridges the past and present on the bustling Esplanade de Corum.

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Les Allégories de McCollum, located on the Esplanade de Corum in Montpellier, presents a thought-provoking encounter with art that bridges the past and present. Created by American artist Allan McCollum in 2000, the installation features five vibrant, life-size replicas of deteriorated 18th-century limestone statues discovered at the Château Bonnier de la Mosson. These colorful reproductions, made from resin and marble, offer a striking contrast to their weathered originals, prompting reflection on themes of decay, restoration, and the passage of time. Situated near the Corum tram station, the statues invite passersby to contemplate the interplay between classical aesthetics and contemporary artistic expression, making it a unique and accessible cultural landmark in Montpellier.

A brief summary to Les allégories de McCollum

  • Montpellier, 34000, FR

Local tips

  • Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the vibrant colors of the statues and capture the best photos.
  • Take a stroll along the Esplanade de Corum to enjoy the lively atmosphere and surrounding architecture.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Corum, a modern conference center and opera house.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Montpellier city center, take Tram Line 1 towards Odysseum. Get off at the Corum station. Les Allégories de McCollum are located at the end of the Esplanade de Corum, a short walk from the tram stop. A single tram ticket costs approximately €1.60.

  • Walking

    From the Place de la Comédie, walk north along the Esplanade Charles de Gaulle. Continue onto the Esplanade de Corum. Les Allégories de McCollum will be visible at the end of the esplanade, near the Corum.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from the city center to Les Allégories de McCollum will cost approximately €8-€12, depending on traffic. Ask to be dropped off at the Corum.

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Discover more about Les allégories de McCollum

Les Allégories de McCollum, an intriguing public art installation, graces the Esplanade de Corum in Montpellier, France. Created in 2000 by American artist Allan McCollum, the work comprises five life-size replicas of deteriorated and mutilated 18th-century limestone statues. These statues were originally found on the grounds of the Château Bonnier de la Mosson, one of Montpellier's historic 'folies,' or pleasure palaces. McCollum's Allégories project involved creating molds of the original, decaying statues and then casting new versions using a combination of stone, polyester resin, and vibrant pigments. The resulting sculptures stand as colorful doppelgangers of their aged counterparts, inviting viewers to consider themes of originality, reproduction, and the effects of time on cultural artifacts. The statues are strategically placed at the end of the Esplanade de Corum, a bustling pedestrian area connecting the city center, the Esplanade Charles de Gaulle, and the Corum tram station. This location ensures high visibility and accessibility, encouraging interaction with the artwork by both locals and tourists. The choice of bright colors for the replicas is a deliberate artistic decision. The vivid hues contrast sharply with the weathered appearance of the original statues, highlighting the act of restoration and reinterpretation. This juxtaposition prompts questions about the value we place on historical preservation versus contemporary artistic expression. Allan McCollum's broader artistic practice often involves the mass production of unique objects, exploring themes of individuality and repetition in a consumer-driven society. Allégories aligns with this approach by presenting multiple versions of the same subject, each with its own distinct character and presence. The project was commissioned by the city of Montpellier to coincide with the opening of the city's tramway line 1, signifying a commitment to integrating art into the urban landscape and making it accessible to a wider audience. The installation has become a recognizable landmark in Montpellier, contributing to the city's cultural identity. In 2006, the statues were vandalized with silver paint, sparking a debate about the role of public art and the responsibilities of both artists and the community in its upkeep. The statues were later restored to their original colors, reaffirming the artist's vision and the city's commitment to preserving its cultural heritage. Les Allégories de McCollum serves as a reminder of the ever-evolving relationship between art, history, and the public realm. Its presence on the Esplanade de Corum encourages dialogue and reflection, inviting viewers to engage with the past while contemplating the present.

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