A Place Of Solace - Imago Dei France
A MONASTERY OF THE THIRD MILLENNIUM
This project was created by Imago Dei who is City to City’s Faith and Work Catalyst in France during the 2024 Olympics.
This initiative, led by the artist couple Estienne and Johanna Rylle, aimed to create "a place of solace" by fostering fruitful dialogue through artistic creation, Christian spirituality, and our culture's search for meaning. The main objective was to provide a place of rest and to engage in meaningful conversations with visitors. There were 40 works of art exhibited, 1,100 recorded visits, 120 volunteers involved, 15 events organized, and a 2-minute walk from the Olympic flame.
La Baptisse: A vibrant place
La Baptisse, defined as a 3rd millennium monastery, has demonstrated its ability to bring together culture, spirituality, and the world of work. The project confirmed La Baptisse's vision as a place embodying Gospel values based on cultural care by mobilizing a diverse community. The Exhibition: "Hymnal, Gathered Humanity"
The exhibition explored the themes of the anthem and human gathering through:
Site-specific installations
Works assembled to create a collective exhibition
The involvement of a community of creatives to bring the space to life
Events
A variety of events enlivened the space, including:
An opening reception bringing together diverse communities
Meditative concerts
A fashion design residency
Wood carving workshops
Artistic performances
Theater performances
The Café: A Space for Sharing
The café played a central role as a welcoming and dialogue space, fostering deep exchanges between visitors and volunteers.
Meaningful Conversations
Every day, team members engaged in meaningful conversations around the central themes of the crisis of meaning facing our contemporary society, as if the artworks had become "conversational third places."
Testimonials
"Instead of complaining about the culture that makes Christian life very difficult, Johanna and Estienne are striving to create a new approach with local artists. They are living out their vocation to embody God's love as prescribed in Jeremiah 29 (the Bible). Both are gifted artists who want to create a welcoming space for creativity. This is exactly the type of initiative we must support to have a real impact on the cynical culture we are fighting against." - Makoto Fujimura, renowned artist and theologian
"The environment at La Baptisse gave me the opportunity to speak with people I would never have met otherwise. I spoke with people from all walks of life and beliefs, and it was art that connected us and guided our conversations toward often spiritual topics. It was a wonderful experience, and I am very grateful." - Cassie, volunteer involved in the La Baptisse project
"The atmosphere was both relaxing and stimulating, imbued with love and concern for others. The team, united and caring, exuded hope and respect. La Baptisse shone like a beacon in the heart of Paris." - Michael, visitor