Pompidou Center Emptied: Paris Art Icon Closes Doors for Renovation

The Pompidou Center, a renowned hub for modern and contemporary art in Paris, has initiated a substantial renovation project, leading to its closure for an estimated five years. This extensive closure is marked by the meticulous process of relocating nearly 120,000 artworks, a logistical feat of historical significance for France. The artworks, some requiring cranes for removal, are being disassembled, repaired, and carefully packed for transport.

This €463 million renovation aims to update the building's aging infrastructure, including its heating systems and the removal of asbestos. Several large-scale and complex artworks, such as "Le Magasin de Ben" and "Salon Agam," require specialized techniques and significant time for dismantling and packing. While the main building undergoes its transformation, the Pompidou's extensive collection will be partly displayed at its international satellite sites in locations like Seoul and Brussels.

The Pompidou Center, which opened in 1977 and attracts millions of visitors annually, is more than just a museum; it's a vibrant cultural space for art, cinema, theater, and reading. Its closure creates a void in Paris's cultural landscape, though its president, Laurent Le Bon, views the renovation as a "metamorphosis" rather than an end, ensuring the institution's continued relevance and accessibility.