Hidden within a seemingly ordinary street in Paris’s 20th arrondissement, the Espace Monte-Cristo unveils a surprising world of contemporary sculpture. This unique exhibition space, established in 2018, serves as the Parisian branch of the Villa Datris Foundation in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. The Espace Monte-Cristo isn’t just another gallery. It’s a vibrant hub dedicated to showcasing the ever-evolving collection of the Villa Datris Foundation. Each year, the Espace Monte-Cristo explores a new theme. These surprising and original exhibitions breathe life into the foundation’s collection. The building itself carries a rich history. This 300-square-meter industrial warehouse once housed the offices and storage for RAJA, a packaging company. Founded in 1954 by Rachel Marcovici, RAJA began as a small carton distribution business. Her daughter, Danièle Marcovici, now president of the RAJA Group and the Villa Datris Foundation, holds a deep connection to this space. It’s where her career began, amidst the memories of her childhood. The Espace Monte-Cristo has undergone a remarkable transformation. The warehouse now offers a warm and welcoming environment to appreciate contemporary sculpture. Natural light streams through large glass windows overlooking two interior gardens. The exhibition spaces, spread across two floors and the gardens, feel like exploring a welcoming artist’s home. Visitors can enjoy a sensory play area, designed to extend the exhibition experience. There are also booklets for younger audiences and a documentary space. The documentary space offers a library with over a thousand books and recorded artist interviews. The Espace Monte-Cristo is more than an exhibition space. It’s a place where art, history, and personal connection intertwine. Free and open to all, it offers a unique perspective on the world of contemporary sculpture.
Église Notre-Dame de l’Air
Beneath what appears to be a simple stone and wood structure lies a history interwoven with faith aviation and community.