Art Basel | Ruinart Carte Blanche

Art Basel, the pinnacle of the global art scene, has always been a fertile ground for creativity, innovation, and cultural exchange. This year, it gains a touch of effervescence with Maison Ruinart’s sponsorship. The iconic Champagne house is not merely lending its name to the event but is also infusing it with a rich blend of artistry and environmental consciousness through its 2024 Carte Blanche project.

A Conversation with Nature by Marcus Coates

British artist Marcus Coates has been invited to contribute to this year’s Carte Blanche, bringing his unique approach to the Maison’s commitment to biodiversity. Coates’ work is a profound conversation with nature, focusing on observing, listening, and understanding the needs and perspectives of other species. His latest project at Ruinart’s historic Taissy vineyard exemplifies this ethos beautifully.

Coates has created an ephemeral calendar, a delicate yet powerful piece marking the daily events unfolding in the vineyard’s ecosystem. From the flowering of plants to the migration of birds and the lifecycle of insects, each day is celebrated with a short phrase that highlights the otherwise invisible happenings in nature. This calendar is not just an artistic installation but a gentle reminder of the intricate web of life that surrounds and supports us.

Thijs Biersteker: Bridging Science and Nature

Complementing Coates' nature-centric approach is the work of Dutch artist Thijs Biersteker. Known for his ability to merge art with scientific data, Biersteker’s creations bring a heightened awareness to the natural world. His interactive artwork for the Ruinart Carte Blanche, titled “Xylemia,” is a testament to this philosophy.

“Xylemia” uses advanced sensors to capture the real-time flow of sap, mirroring the intricate network of vine roots entwining a tree trunk. This high-tech piece not only reflects Ruinart’s dedication to sustainable practices but also draws a direct parallel to how the Champagne house listens to nature to craft its exquisite cuvées. The installation invites viewers to witness the silent yet vital processes of nature, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment.

Shared Commitment to Sustainability

Both Marcus Coates and Thijs Biersteker embody Maison Ruinart’s enduring commitment to sustainability. Their artworks are not just exhibitions; they are conversations with nature that encourage us to listen, observe, and learn. Ruinart’s sponsorship of Art Basel extends beyond a mere partnership; it is a celebration of the symbiotic relationship between art, nature, and the refined art of Champagne-making.

By bringing these thought-provoking artworks to Art Basel, Maison Ruinart continues to inspire a dialogue about the importance of preserving our natural world. It highlights the role that both art and nature play in our lives, reminding us to cherish and protect the delicate balance that sustains us all.

So, as you stroll through the vibrant halls of Art Basel, savor a glass of Ruinart, and take a moment to immerse yourself in the profound works of Marcus Coates and Thijs Biersteker. It's a toast to the harmonious blend of art, nature, and the exquisite taste of Ruinart Champagne.