Today we ventured to Ceret in Catalan France. This place has become one of the greatest attractions for us in this part of France. Thanks to the efforts of Pierre Brune and other artists this small town has one of the finest modern art museums we have ever seen, Musee d’art Moderne.
Ceret lies at the foot of the Pyrennes, so there also is marvelous scenery to accompany the art.
We love the collection of the museum – a large donation by Pablo Picasso of ceramics, drawings, and paintings, wonderful paintings by a variety of post-impressionist artists, Dufy, Soutine, Matisse, and so many more. However, today there was a special exhibition by sculptor Jaume Plensa. Friends in Chicago may recognize his name as the creator of a wonderful interactive water sculpture in your fair city. This was our introduction to this wonderful philosopher, poet, and artist. One could stay in a room with one of his installations for hours. They are meditative, thought-provoking, and inspirational. These photos only can hint at the depth of the feelings produced.
Silhouettes is composed of 16 steel figures floating in space, with maxims and verses from poems dear to Plensa. William Blake’s verse sums up the piece: “One thought fills immensity.” Talking Continents consists of 19 pieces comprised of letter of international alphabets. The letters form transparent pebbles on which figure sit in silent and poetic conversation between the different universes and human who live in contact with one another but never really encounter. The pieces are made of the material of our languages. Air, Water, Void features three seated men with their hands over their mouths who are bound together in a silent exchange. The resin figures are illuminated and change colors constantly. The peaceful atmosphere makes one contemplate the silent language and its mystery. Monumental Faces are inspired by the faces of real people the artist has met. He is attracted by their beauty and personality. The closed eyes invite us to dream and meditate.
We took a rather circuitous path back to our car thanks to my poor navigation. It involved a path down into the river gorge below a 12th century bridge. These are the kind of experiences one can have when you let go a a planned itinerary.
Ciao!
Paul
Travels With Picasso 
I must thank you once more for many things not the least of which being for the “discovery” of the Céret museum, a gem at the feet of the Pyrénées with haunting works of art. I had never heard of Jaume Plensa and I did not know Picasso’s ceramics so tonight I stand dazed but a little less ignorant. Thank you.