Skateboarding, having firmly established its place in the Olympics since its debut in Tokyo, continues to thrive and evolve. As we eagerly await the 2024 Summer Games in Paris, the Centre Pompidou has collaborated with artist Raphael Zarka and architect Jean-Benoît Vétillard to bring forth a groundbreaking addition to the urban landscape: Cycloïd Piazza, a one-of-a-kind skatepark.
Innovative Skatepark Design at Centre Pompidou
This innovative structure is a harmonious blend of art and function, combining the aesthetic brilliance of a sculpture with the practical elements of a skatepark. The vibrant mini ramp, half-pipe, and stairs seem to leap from the imaginative drawings of Italian architect and designer Alessandro Mendini. The Centre Pompidou elaborates that Cycloïd Piazza “invites us to re-experiment with these curves, studied in classical mechanics, through the practice and spectacle of skateboarding.”
Raphael Zarka’s Unique Perspective on Skateboarding
Raphael Zarka, an avid skateboarder since childhood, brings a unique perspective to the project. He asserts that “skateboarding has the particular ability to indelibly mark the way you apprehend shapes and spaces,” further explaining that “The word Piazza suggests a change of scale: my sculpture was designed as a space, an area within an area, a piazza on a piazza.” This thoughtful approach is reflected in every curve and angle of the skatepark, designed to engage both skaters and spectators.
Cycloïd Piazza: A Fusion of Art, Architecture, and Athleticism
Cycloïd Piazza, created in partnership with Nike, marks Zarka’s fourth such project. The skatepark will be accessible to the public in front of the Centre Pompidou until September 15, 2024. This installation not only serves as a prelude to the Olympic events but also as a lasting testament to the fusion of art, architecture, and athleticism.
2024 Summer Olympics: A Celebration of Sport and Culture
The anticipation for the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris is palpable, with the official opening set for July 26 and the events running through August 11, 2024. Cycloïd Piazza stands as a vibrant, living piece of this monumental occasion, celebrating the spirit of the games and the dynamic culture of skateboarding.
Visit the Centre Pompidou for an Enriching Experience
For those eager to witness this intersection of art and sport, the Centre Pompidou is located at Place Georges-Pompidou, 75004 Paris, France. This iconic venue promises an enriching experience for visitors and locals alike, encapsulating the essence of innovation and community that defines the modern Olympic spirit.
