Beneath the sky’s expansive canvas stands La Fée du Lac Ophélie. She is a shimmering testament to art’s embrace of nature. This sculpture graces Marseille’s Parc Borély. La Fée du Lac Ophélie invites us to ponder the delicate balance between human sensitivity and the natural world.
La Fée du Lac Ophélie is part of “Le Chemin des Fées”. It is a series of five sculptures. These sculptures mark the presence of the Huveaune River. The river flows from the Sainte Baume mountains to the Mediterranean Sea. La Fée du Lac Ophélie and her sisters guide us on a 30km trail. This path encourages exploration of the Huveaune valley.
Lucy and Jorge Orta created La Fée du Lac Ophélie. The artists are known as Studio Orta. They explore social and ecological themes. Their work includes drawing, sculpture, and ephemeral installations.
“Le Chemin des Fées” was commissioned by Rives & Cultures. The association sought to highlight the Huveaune valley’s natural and cultural heritage. Inaugurated on May 31, 2013, La Fée du Lac Ophélie embodies the spirit of the project.
These feminine sculptures interpret the river’s history. They are inspired by fairy tales and legends linked to the valley. Spirits, princesses, nymphs, and mother goddesses reside in these waters. La Fée du Lac Ophélie stands as a “genius loci”. She weaves a connection between the past and the present.
La Fée du Lac Ophélie draws inspiration from Shakespeare’s Hamlet. She also evokes Arthur Rimbaud’s poem “Ophélie”. Rimbaud describes Ophelia floating like a lily on calm, dark waters.
Made of polychrome aluminium, La Fée du Lac Ophélie stands 200cm tall. She rises from the water in a state of equilibrium. The sculpture symbolizes a return to origins and a union with nature. In the water cycle, La Fée du Lac Ophélie represents evaporation. Water heated by the sun ascends to the sky as vapor.
La Fée du Lac Ophélie encourages reflection on environmental issues. She makes us consider water management for the future. Other fairies reside in various locations. These include the Parc du Vieux Moulin in Marseille, Aubagne’s Parc de l’Îlot des Berges, and Auriol’s Moulin St Claude. Saint Zacharie also hosts one at Les Martelières.
La Fée du Lac Ophélie stands as a guardian. She is a reminder of the interconnectedness of art, nature, and human consciousness. As you gaze upon La Fée du Lac Ophélie, remember the river’s journey. Also reflect on our role in protecting its future.