L'Atelier 11, painted in 1916 by Chaïm Soutine, has not undergone significant renovations since its construction in the late 19th century. The facades and the interior are in a worrying state, requiring substantial restoration and a major overhaul of the structure across its three levels. Many original elements, such as the typical workshop windows, need restoration, which comes at a significant cost.
The restoration of the facade will preserve as many original elements as possible. The primary wooden framework will be retained, cleaned, and treated. The street and courtyard glass panels, dating back to the time of construction, will be restored with thin metal profiles to maintain their original appearance while improving thermal insulation.
The main space of Atelier 11 will be preserved, the stairs and mezzanine will be adjusted and leveled to ensure consistency with internal connections and external woodwork. Original structural beams will be restored, preserved, and showcased.
All interior fittings and finishes, including paint, flooring, insulation, electrical, plumbing, and heating, will need to be brought up to date or completely renovated. The goal is to maintain the functionality of the Atelier to continue hosting artists.
The Cité Falguière was created over 150 years ago and is one of the world's oldest artist residences still in operation. It has hosted numerous renowned artists such as Gauguin, Soutine, Modigliani, Foujita, and Brancusi. Atelier 11 is the last active workshop, bearing witness to the rich history of the Cité's artistic community.
However, since the 1960s, most of the workshops and residences in the Cité were destroyed due to urban renovations in Montparnasse. To preserve this heritage and carry forward the artistic legacy of the École de Paris, the Cité Falguière Association collaborates with L'AiR Arts, local and international artists and architects to undertake a comprehensive campaign for the restoration and renovation of Atelier 11.
The objective of this mobilization is to reestablish an international art and research residence. Since 2021, L’AiR Arts has been offering an international art and research residence program within Atelier 11, continuing the Cité Falguière's 150-year history. These renovations will strengthen this legacy of the École de Paris.
Main Image : Atelier 11 in the Cité Falguière, Paris, France, Photo L'Air Arts
Anna Melnykova, "Palace of Labor (palats praci), architector I. Pretro, 1916", shot with analog Canon camera, 35 mm Fuji film in March 2022.
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