Since 2008, Maison Ruinart has invited artists to present their interpretations of the champagne house and its heritage as part of the Carte Blanche commission. While in the past artists like Eva Jospin, Jeppe Hein, or David Shrigley have offered their perspectives, 2024 marks a paradigm shift, as Ruinart is embracing a new approach. Under the theme of “Conversations With Nature,” this year, six artists from five continents have traveled to Reims and created works of art based on their personal impressions of the landscape they encountered.

 

The practices of the invited artists are as diverse as their countries of origin. Some focus on biodiversity, others on data related to climate change, dreams, poetry, acoustic elements of nature, or activism. The common denominator that unites them is a genuine interest in nature and a shared awareness of the importance of protecting it. This year’s approach emphasizes the need for joint efforts and unity in tackling the environmental challenges of our time. Ignant took a closer look at the practices in this year’s commission.

 

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Exploring Nature From Different Perspectives: Maison Ruinart’s Carte Blanche Commission 2024

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Oliveira is known for his works exploring the tension between nature and urban life. His often monumental installations resemble organic structures and roots growing out of unexpected environments and are frequently made from humble materials like recycled plywood. For the commission, the Brazilian artist created an over-dimensional root from recycled inlay woods and papier-mâché, reinforced by an internal metal structure. The shape of the sculpture resembles an inverted vine, whose roots, instead of finding their paths on subterranean levels, emerge to the surface and expand into the air. “Desnatureza 6” serves as a symbol for the eternal cycle of life and the annual renewal that defines the winemaking process.

 

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Febraury 2025