PHL Embassy in Paris, France Unveils Impy Pilapil Sculpture
Philippine Ambassador Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro (left) delivers her remarks at the inauguration ceremony of FERN with Neuilly-sur-Seine Mayor Jean-Christophe Fromantin (right).
10 April 2018 PARIS — Philippine Ambassador to France Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, along with Mayor Jean-Christophe Fromantin, formally inaugurated the sculpture, FERN by renowned Filipina artist Impy Pilapil at Square Martial Massiani, a public park in the City of Neuilly-sur-Seine, France on April 05.
The three-meter tall stone and steel sculpture is a donation of the Philippine government to the City of Neuilly-sur-Seine on the occasion of the 70th Anniversary of the establishment of Diplomatic Relations between the Philippines and France.
“Art is indeed universal, transcending cultures and borders, appealing to our hearts, souls, and common humanity… [I convey our] gratitude to the City of Neuilly-sur-Seine and the people of France for allowing [Impy’s] sculpture to find a home here in square Martial Massiani,” said Ambassador Lazaro. She added that the installation of FERN is historic because it is the first time that a contemporary Filipino sculpture has been installed in a public space in France.
Mayor Fromantin said that the installation of the sculpture illustrates “the vibrant exchange of cultures, transmission of universal values of truth, naturalness, authenticity, respect, and spontaneity in relations among peoples and nations.” He said that sculpture also reminds everyone of respect for the planet and protection of the environment. He noted that the “world would be a better place if politics used art more to communicate the values it wishes to transmit.” He also said that the sculpture is a welcome addition to the international character of the city and will introduce many French children who often visit the park to the Philippines.
The inauguration was attended by members of the diplomatic community, city officials, and local residents. Former Philippine Ambassador to France Rora Navarro Tolentino also graced the ceremony.
The City of Neuilly-sur-Seine is a prominent French commune found just west of Paris in the department of Hauts-de-Seine. END
The Impy Pilapil sculpture titled FERN is the first contemporary Filipino sculpture to be installed in a public space in France.
Members of the diplomatic community join Ambassador Lazaro and Mayor Fromantin.
For more information, visit www.parispe.dfa.gov.ph or http://www.facebook.com/PHinFrance/ https://twitter.com/PHinFrance.