Italian
A cinematic celebration at Art Basel Paris: Miu Miu’s tales and tellers
An extraordinary debut
The convergence of brilliant minds, including celebrated filmmakers and actresses, marked Art Basel Paris this year. Miu Miu hosted its first “Tales & Tellers” spotlight at the iconic Palais d’Iéna, running from October 16 to 20. The event was a dynamic showcase, presenting over 20 short films from the acclaimed Miu Miu Women’s Tales series. Luminaries like Ava DuVernay, Chloë Sevigny, and Cailee Spaeny, and the Cannes Film Festival president all participated, contributing to an ambiance of creativity and innovation.
Bringing films to life
The exhibition was meticulously designed by Goshka Macuga and Elvira Dyangani Ose, transforming the Palais into a realm where cinema intersected with live performance and visual art. Actresses and models donned costumes from the featured films, creating immersive experiences that breathed life into each narrative. The event wasn’t just about viewing films; it was about feeling them.
Icons and emerging talents
Featuring shorts by Ava DuVernay, Zoe R. Cassavetes, Lila Avilés, and many more, the exhibition became a tapestry of diverse voices and styles. Directors like Crystal Moselle and Carla Simón shared their works and insights, engaging in panels that explored the nuances of femininity and the female gaze. These discussions provided deep dives into how women perceive and present stories, enriched by personal experiences and professional reflections.
Empowering female filmmakers
Since its inception in 2011, the Miu Miu Women’s Tales series has granted female directors the freedom to craft their visions without constraint. This platform has been instrumental in elevating emerging talents, allowing them to make significant strides in the film industry. One such story of empowerment is that of Ava DuVernay, who recalled her initial lack of opportunities post-Sundance win and her subsequent collaboration with Miu Miu. She fondly spoke of the brand’s generosity and support in her artistic journey.
A sisterhood of storytellers
The opening vernissage was more than just a celebration of film. It was a homage to the trailblazing women who paved the way. Attendees like Haifaa Al-Mansour and Janicza Bravo echoed sentiments of solidarity and mutual support among female filmmakers. The sense of community was palpable, as shared experiences and struggles bonded the attendees, creating a sense of sisterhood that radiated through the event.
Honoring cinematic legends
The event also paid tribute to cinematic legends who have inspired generations of filmmakers. Tributes to Ann Hui, Chantal Akerman, and Agnès Varda highlighted the far-reaching impact these pioneers have had on the industry. Chloë Sevigny, fresh from filming with Julia Roberts, reflected on the generosity and mentorship she received from directors like Claire Denis, emphasizing the profound influence of such gestures on her career.
Immersive experiences
The retrospective was not just an exhibit; it morphed into a live, interactive theater. Characters from the films roamed the halls, intertwining with the guests and adding layers of surreality and immersion. The audience didn’t merely watch the films; they lived them, as performers engaged in musical acts and impromptu comedy, blurring the lines between the reel and the real.
Diverse interpretations of the female gaze
With diverse backgrounds, each filmmaker brought a unique perspective on the female gaze. Massy Tadjedin highlighted the search for subtext and truth, while Tan Chui Mui emphasized empathy and relationship-building. For Crystal Moselle, the feminine energy in filmmaking meant being genuinely vulnerable and heartfelt. The varied interpretations enriched the dialogues, offering a multi-faceted view of what the female gaze encapsulates.
A surreal and emotional affair
The vernissage was filled with emotional moments. Antoneta Alamat Kusijanović remarked on the profound sense of solidarity she felt, especially when witnessing performers re-creating film characters. This shared experience underscored the event’s theme of unity and collective empowerment, leaving a lasting impression on all participants.
Conclusion
As the exhibitions and performances drew to a close, it was evident that the ”Tales & Tellers” spotlight was more than a display of films. It was a celebration of female artistry, courage, and the enduring impact of cinema. The blend of visual art, performance, and narrative created an unforgettable experience that will resonate long after the curtains fall on Art Basel Paris.
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