Sixty-seven tubes a vibrant mosaic. That’s Le Moretti. Before you stands a giant whimsical straw. It’s not straw of course but 672 fiberglass tubes. Each one painted in one of 19 bright cool colors. This isn’t just any chimney. This is Le Moretti a sculpture by Raymond Moretti.
Le Moretti is more than just pretty colors. It’s a clever disguise. It’s actually a ventilation shaft. A 32-meter-tall ventilation shaft. Moretti cleverly transformed a purely functional element into a stunning work of art. The sculpture was inaugurated in 1995. It’s a testament to his imagination and skill.
Think of the logistics. Imagine transporting 672 fiberglass tubes. They had to be shipped by barge to the site. Then they needed 2100 hours of assembly. This massive sculpture wasn’t a quick project. It was a labor of love a dedication to transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. Le Moretti is a masterpiece of repurposing and imagination.
Look closely at the tubes. Notice how their diameters vary from 2 to 30 centimeters. The tubes’ total length is an amazing 22 kilometers. Their total weight is a hefty 27.5 tons. Le Moretti is not only visually striking but impressively large.
At night Le Moretti comes alive. Floodlights illuminate the sculpture. Its vibrant colors reflect in the surrounding buildings. It becomes a beacon a dazzling spectacle against the Parisian night sky. Le Moretti is a work of art that interacts with its environment both day and night.
Raymond Moretti a French painter and sculptor created Le Moretti. He was known for his innovative approach. He sought to blend art and function seamlessly. Le Moretti is a prime example of his unique style. This masterpiece stands as a testament to his legacy. It transforms a simple ventilation shaft into a vibrant symbol of artistic innovation. Enjoy this unexpected treasure hidden within La Défense.