A striking new sculpture representing a comet has been inaugurated at the heart of Guigner-Le Henanff Park in Pluvigner, a commune in Morbihan, Brittany. The contemporary artwork, created by artist Ismaël Maudet, was installed as part of France's national "1% for art" program and represents the municipality's vision to transform the park into a space for walking, culture, and community sharing.
The sculpture project originated from the construction of Pluvigner's future cultural center, which qualified the municipality for a grant from DRAC (Regional Directorate of Cultural Affairs). Under the program's requirements, a portion of the funding had to be dedicated to an artwork. Rather than purchasing an existing piece, the municipality chose to launch an open call for proposals. "We wanted a creation that would make sense here, that would dialogue with the history and identity of the site," explained a member of the steering committee.
Sixteen artists responded to the call for submissions. After several weeks of evaluation, the jury selected "Comet," Ismaël Maudet's proposal. The installation impressed both with its aesthetic appeal and its meaningful references to local history. "I wanted to draw inspiration from the Saint-Michel chapel, which disappeared in 1894, and from the pond that once occupied this area," the artist revealed.
Maudet described his conceptual approach, explaining that "the comet is both a sign from the sky and a reminder of waters, a bridge between the past and the imagination." This symbolic interpretation connects the artwork to the site's historical significance while offering a contemporary artistic vision that resonates with visitors.
Before the sculpture was even installed, it had already begun building community connections. Recently, Ismaël Maudet conducted a participatory workshop that brought together local residents and curious visitors. "It was a wonderful opportunity to explain my approach and create a direct link with the people of Pluvigner," the artist expressed with satisfaction.
Sylvie Ollivier, Pluvigner's deputy mayor for culture, participated in the inauguration ceremony alongside the artist. The event marked a significant milestone in the municipality's cultural development strategy, representing their commitment to integrating contemporary art into public spaces.
With the addition of "Comet," the municipality hopes to enhance the park's attractiveness and give it a new dimension. "We want this place to become a space for walking, but also for culture and sharing," emphasized the municipal team. The artwork joins the existing trees, pathways, and regular visitors, adding a new focal point that shines at the heart of the park.
The installation represents a successful fusion of heritage preservation, contemporary art, and community engagement. By referencing the disappeared Saint-Michel chapel and the former pond, the sculpture creates a dialogue between Pluvigner's past and its artistic future, while providing a gathering point for cultural activities and community interaction.
Guigner-Le Henanff Park now charts its trajectory under the sign of the stars, with the comet sculpture serving as both an artistic landmark and a symbol of the commune's commitment to cultural development. The project demonstrates how public art initiatives can successfully combine historical awareness, contemporary creativity, and community involvement to create meaningful spaces for residents and visitors alike.
