Welcome to Le Boqueteau des 7 arbres, a fascinating intersection of modern art and nature in the unique ski resort of Flaine, France. This intriguing location is part of the broader narrative of the resort, which was conceived in the late 1950s by geophysicist Éric Boissonnas and brought to life by Swiss architect Gérard Chervaz and Bauhaus master Marcel Breuer. Flaine is renowned for its modernist architecture, but it also houses an exceptional collection of outdoor art. Among these artworks is ‘Le Boqueteau des 7 arbres’ by Jean Dubuffet, a piece that adds a whimsical touch to the stark, Brutalist surroundings.
Flaine was officially opened in January 1969 and was envisioned as a modernist utopia, a pioneering blend of art, architecture, and urban planning. Éric and Sylvie Boissonnas, who were ardent art patrons, collaborated with Marcel Breuer to design a resort that seamlessly integrated with the mountainous landscape while showcasing their passion for modern art and classical music.
The resort’s construction was a bold move away from traditional alpine architecture, and its buildings were constructed with prefabricated concrete panels, playing with light and shadow to create dramatic visual effects. This approach was part of Breuer’s vision of architecture as an interplay between human creation and the raw power of nature.
The art collection in Flaine, including Dubuffet’s ‘Le Boqueteau des 7 arbres,’ reflects the Boissonnas’ commitment to art. Jean Dubuffet, known for his avant-garde approach and his role in founding the Art Brut movement, contributed this playful sculpture of seven abstract trees, adding an artistic flair to the resort’s landscape.
Throughout the years, Flaine has evolved from its early days as a modernist experiment to a recognized cultural landmark. In 2008, it received the ‘Architectural Heritage of the 20th Century’ label from the French Ministry of Culture, acknowledging its unique contribution to architectural history.
So as you walk through Flaine, take a moment to admire not just the stunning natural surroundings but also the extraordinary artistic and architectural vision that makes this place so distinctive.
