Transporting a Monumental Artwork to Paris by Oversized Load
Transexpo and Exceptional Logistics: The Transport of Rachel Marks’ “Symfolia”
Transexpo was recently entrusted with a mission that highlighted its expertise: the packing and transport of the monumental sculpture Symfolia by artist Rachel Marks, showcased at the Cinémathèque de Paris. This operation perfectly illustrates our ability to meet the challenges associated with transporting monumental and fragile artworks.
A Monumental Artwork Requiring Delicate Handling
Created for the 2024 Summer Olympics, Symfolia is an organic paper sculpture of impressive dimensions. Among the custom-made crates designed to safely transport the artwork, one measured 380 x 290 x 250 cm. This project required meticulous planning to ensure the artwork’s integrity throughout every stage of the logistical process.
A Comprehensive and Tailored Service
Our involvement encompassed all critical phases of the project:
- Custom Crate Fabrication: Reinforced wooden crates specifically designed to protect the sculpture’s various components during transit.
- Artwork Packing: Special care was taken to use materials that are gentle on the surfaces and structures of the sculpture.
- Transport to the Cinémathèque de Paris: Including oversized load transports of Category 1 for the most voluminous elements.
- Unpacking and Installation of the Artwork: In collaboration with the Cinémathèque’s technical teams to ensure seamless integration within the exhibition space.
Expertise and Innovation in the Service of Art
Transporting a monumental piece like Symfolia required precision logistics combined with expertise in handling unique artistic objects. Transexpo relied on state-of-the-art equipment and optimal methodologies to overcome this challenge. The use of Category 1 oversized load transports for the largest crates demonstrates our mastery of special operations and our commitment to meeting deadlines.
Transexpo: Your Partner for Exceptional Projects
This successful mission for the transport of Symfolia reaffirms Transexpo’s dedication to supporting cultural and artistic stakeholders in their most ambitious projects. Whether for monumental artworks or smaller, delicate pieces, we provide personalized solutions that combine technical expertise and respect for the art itself.
The Specifics of a Category 1 Oversized Load with Transexpo
A Category 1 oversized load transport involves moving goods or equipment exceeding the standard size or weight limits for regular vehicles, within moderate margins. At Transexpo, these operations require advanced logistical expertise and precise coordination.
This category includes transports with:
- Lengths of up to 20 meters,
- Widths of up to 3 meters,
- A total authorized weight (PTAC) of up to 48 tons.
Symfolia: A Monumental Artwork by Rachel Marks
Created by internationally renowned American artist Rachel Marks, Symfolia is a monumental organic paper sculpture produced at the Cité de la Musique in Paris for the 2024 Summer Olympics. This artwork, the result of an artistic residency at the Philharmonie de Paris, is part of the COEUR program (Creation of Ephemeral Works Uniting Dreams), led by the Inspired by KM association, chaired by Kylian Mbappé.
Developed in collaboration with thousands of children over 20 months, Symfolia celebrates collective creativity while raising awareness about environmental preservation. Made from recycled materials such as sheet music and book pages, it highlights cultural diversity and the abundance of the plant world. Music, inherent in the artwork’s concept and material, enhances visitors’ experiences through original sound compositions played inside the tree.
This poetic and committed project, supported by the Fondation Signature and labeled as part of the Cultural Olympiad, offers a unique visual and auditory immersion, exemplifying harmony between art, nature, and community.
For more information: https://philharmoniedeparis.fr/fr/activite/installation/26867-symfolia