In just a few weeks, a new exhibition will open at the Musée Océanographique de Monaco that blends sculptural artistry with a powerful message on the vulnerability of the polar regions. Here’s everything you need to know about Michel Bassompierre’s ‘The Giants of Ice’. 

From 10th April until 6th October, Michel Bassompierre will be showcasing his unique style of sculpture at the Musée Océanographique in a bid to help raise awareness of the critical challenges facing the world’s polar regions.

Bassompierre’s goal is to capture the true spirit of his subjects – in this case, polar bears and a three-metre-high Emperor penguin – with the hopes of inspiring a deeper bond with nature in his audience.

“The duty of artists is perhaps to share our sense of beauty, to create wonder,” he says. “This reconnection to the beauty of nature is necessary to foster a desire to protect it.”

Featuring seven works, including five new creations designed specifically for this event, ‘The Giants of Ice’ exhibition will be spread throughout the museum and on its rooftop terrace. The sculptures will be complemented by original drawings and sketches as well as a continuous film presentation offering a glimpse into the artist’s creative process.

“By sparking wonder, these fragile giants question and challenge the visitor on the extreme vulnerability of these species,” says Robert Calcagno, Director General of the Oceanographic Institute. “These works confront the public with the current challenges of biodiversity protection.”

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