“I’d say that the quantity of boredom, if boredom is measurable, is much greater today than it once was. Because the old occupations, at least most of them, were unthinkable without a passionate involvement: the peasants in love with their land; my grandfather, the magician of beautiful tables; the shoemakers who knew every villager’s feet by heart; the woodsmen; the gardeners; probably even the soldiers killed with passion back then.

The meaning of life wasn’t an issue, it was there with them, quite naturally, in their workshops, in their fields. Each occupation had created its own mentality, its own way of being. A doctor would think differently from a peasant, a soldier would behave differently from a teacher.“

Milan Kundera Identity

The only place I’ve seen (so far) that naturally embodies this idea and spirit in the reality nowadays is Le Viaduc des Arts in Paris (12-eme). It is a bridge style viaduc, which creatively combines the best of two worlds – the garden on the top of the “bridge” and the artisan ateliers. While observing the artisans working in their open ateliers one can really feel the energy inside – the passion and love they are creating with. The walk alongside this viaduc or on top of it (“in the air”) is definately not ordinary.

If you are in Paris I highly recommend seeing it – of course, among all other things. If you are a runner the garden on the top is a perfect place to go running while observing the beauty of the inspirational city!

Photo © ARDDS


Photo © EuropeForVisitors.com

Here is some information on Le Viaduc des Arts:
http://www.viaduc-des-arts.com/index.php?page=96&nom=artisan&lang=en

http://europeforvisitors.com/paris/articles/viaduc-des-arts-photos-10.htm