(Not) sorry, we’re closed

Last October, I came across a post that peaked my interest. Prolific French electronic duo (no, not that one, RIP) shared a new visual interpretation of their hallmark cross. A hyper-real and imposing complexity of colourful pipes, tubes and metal. As it turns out, a ‘Pompidou-ed cross’ announcing the screening of Justice’s ‘Iris: A Space Opera’ as a fully immersive adaptation at Centre Pompidou. Cool.

On digging deeper, this showcase was just one of many happenings hosted by the Parisian art powerhouse to coincide with its temporary but imminent 5 year hiatus. Titled ‘Because Beaubourg’, a whole programme of events were curated in partnership with independent French label Because Music (also celebrating their 20th anniversary). And all because it’s closing (sad face!).

Centre Pompidou described ‘Because Beaubourg’ as their biggest ever event. Spanning all 8 levels, it really was a Tour de Force of audio and visual delights, topped off by a surprise set by one half of another French electronic duo (yes, that one, RIP), Thomas Bangalter. Daft Punk fans across the universe were delighted. Supposedly and fittingly, Centre Pompidou was where Bangalter first got inspired to create music. A nice touch and nod to the circle of life of the space.

Now, obviously, some people are going to miss out on visiting the centre in its long period of closure. And that’s sad. Perhaps if I’d not already been lucky enough to ride its colourful escalators whilst looking out on a grey December 2022 day and was instead planning a trip there this December, I’d not be so upbeat about their closing celebrations. A few years back, on the trip of a lifetime to Japan, I felt irritated by the fact that the Yayoi Kusama Museum was closed, reopening the day after we were due to fly home from Tokyo. Typical! But a small inconvenience for the few benefits the many in the long run.

The way Centre Pompidou embraced their ‘Sorry, we’re closed’ conundrum with an explosive programme of events felt like a refreshing change – to turn a frown upside down. It’s unapologetic, which feels fitting when coming from a brute of a building like this. Closing had to happen, so the centre could continue its bold vision, coming back better and reinvigorated for the future. So why not go out with a bang rather than slip away quietly in hushed tones?

The whole spectacle felt very French and very stylish. A true celebration of Parisian cool and the ultimate ‘after-party’.