For this exhibition at Les Franciscaines, Pierre et Gilles have chosen to explore the theme of sea worlds – an ambiguous blend of threats and pleasures.

The charming sailors reveal themselves as tough warriors, making a final stop in the port and its shadowy areas: places of encounter, waiting, and remembrance. Are the outlandish and colorful depths of the sea not both polluted and magnificent? The sea can also signify drowning and shipwreck – a direct reference to the disillusionment that gripped the artists in the mid-1980s during the devastation caused by the AIDS epidemic. Yet there remains hope that the sea gods, whatever their religion, will protect us.

For the first time, iconic early works will be presented alongside a selection of emblematic pieces from museums and private collections. Four works created especially for the exhibition will also be included in the presentation.

Curators: Pierre et Gilles I Annie Madet-Vache, Director of the Musée des Franciscaines

More events:

Saturday, May 24 — 4pm:
In a Photo by Pierre et Gilles
A screening of Chantal Lasbats’ documentary, followed by a discussion with Pierre et Gilles. Book

Saturday, May 24 — 8pm:
Madame Arthur
Pigalle’s legendary cabaret, revisits the music of Sylvie Vartan, Étienne Daho and Nina Hagen with extravagance. Book

Sunday, May 25 — 4pm:
Talk: Vanessa Schneider meets Farida Khelfa. Book

Sunday, June 15 — 4pm:
Under the Sea, Man, Life, Mystery
A talk with the scientist and mediator Pauline Couet at the Cité de la Mer in Cherbourg. Book

Saturday, August 23 — 7:30pm:
Neptune’s Bal — La Bâronne de Paname
An exceptional evening under Neptune’s good graces, hosted by the Bâronne de Paname and her troupe of forty dancers, singers and musicians. Book

Saturday, September 13 — 4pm:
Pierre et Gilles, Diving into the World of Film
A talk by Marc Donnadieu. Book