« A mirage is revealed »
Fata Morgana is Italian for Morgan le Fay. This character from Arthurian legends was believed to have the power to control the waves and winds to lift castles off the ground. In the Middle Ages, this myth probably explained the optical phenomenon that occurs on sunny seas, which results in places and objects looking like they are floating above water.
In Le Havre, the mirage is revealed on the sea horizon, where the port opens onto the sea : the unreachable and remote silhouette of a palm tree emerges overnight on the south embankment.
This simple apparition triggers unexpected trains of thought linking Le Havre to other parts of the world. The robust and complex structures on the embankments evoke the medinas of oriental cities, as the port becomes an oasis, and the promise of a haven to be found after crossing the desert, in the refreshing shade of the palm trees. To others, the palm tree will trigger more personal memories.
« The idea behind this intervention is based on a very strong cultural symbolism. Through the union of the earth and the hereafter, it represents a divine symbol of joy and benevolence. », explains Chiki, the artist who created this installation. This young artist was born and lived part of his life in Morocco. His work is sometimes inspired by images associated with childhood memories from his time in the country.
