"A toad in a sac"
...these were the words one art critic used to describe Auguste Rodin's bronze casting of the French writer Balzac. I can't say I disagree, though I believe that this statement is essentializing the genius of Rodin just a bit. Today I saw this and many other of Rodin's masterpieces during a lovely trip to the Musee Rodin. The Gardens here are beautiful, full of roses and carefully manicured hedges. Natural beauty is juxtaposed with the beauty of Rodin's masterful work. Stood face to face with "The thinker" and did a little thinking myself, walked near the "Gates of Hell" and marveled at the valor of the "Burghers of Calais." Being in Paris, a city full to the brim with amazing masterpieces, it is very easy to look at a work of art as just another work of art. I have tried hard to fight against this tendency and so far I have maintained my sense of wonder and awe. Took another trip into the Pompidou center today with my roomie Holly, who is an artist herself, what a fun experience to follow her around looking at paintings as if they were old friends, a nod to Pollock and a friendly gaze at Matisse.
Off to the Louvre tomorrow, continuing my weekend of wonder.
you've been the perfect museum partner! sorry we didn't go to the louvre today! we'll spend plenty of time there tomorrow though!
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