Ruinart Art Lounge at ART SG 2024 to Showcase Award-Winning Photographer Matthieu Gafsou’s ‘This Constant Burning in the Air’

As the vibrant ART SG 2024 unfolds, art enthusiasts and connoisseurs can anticipate a harmonious blend of artistic brilliance and chardonnay excellence at the Ruinart Art Lounge. Set to run from January 19 to 21, this captivating showcase will unveil the award-winning photographer Matthieu Gafsou’s thought-provoking series, ‘This Constant Burning in the Air,’ symbolizing a fusion of artistry and sustainable commitment.

As the official champagne partner of Southeast Asia’s largest art fair, Maison Ruinart is not merely presenting its iconic Blanc de Blancs cuvée but is also infusing a fresh perspective into the art scene, underscoring its unwavering dedication to sustainability.

The 4th edition of the Prix Maison Ruinart was recently bestowed upon photographer Matthieu Gafsou, a talent whose work has graced major photography festivals and fairs globally. The prestigious award, given by Maison Ruinart in collaboration with the Picto Foundation, recognizes emerging photographers selected from the ‘Curiosa’ section of the renowned Paris Photo.

Following an artistic residence in the Champagne region during the summer of 2022, Matthieu Gafsou crafted a series entitled ‘Cette constante brûlure de l’air’ (This Constant Burning in the Air). Now, a minimum of nine of Gafsou’s evocative photos will be unveiled for the first time in Southeast Asia at the Ruinart Art Lounge.

The images, taken during the intense summer heat of 2022, present seemingly banal scenes of light-hearted tourists, picturesque landscapes, and a welcoming town. However, Matthieu Gafsou introduces a layer of absurdity by staining the images with crude oil, making the constantly burning air palpable. Through this unique approach, he sheds light on contemporary concerns about the environment and biodiversity, revealing the paradox of our times – where everything seems normal, yet our environment is undergoing brutal changes.

Maison Ruinart’s commitment to the preservation of nature and heritage is deeply rooted in its history. Since its inception in 1729, the House has regarded terroir and ancestral know-how as the foundation for its exceptional wines. Awarding the Prix Maison Ruinart to Matthieu Gafsou echoes Ruinart’s resolute stance on sustainability.

In the face of global environmental challenges, Maison Ruinart has made substantial commitments to effect positive transformations. From sustainable viticulture and high environmental value certifications for its suppliers to prioritizing eco-design and local procurement for packaging materials, Ruinart consistently integrates sustainability into its production processes.

The Ruinart Art Lounge at ART SG 2024 not only celebrates the convergence of art and champagne but also serves as a testament to Maison Ruinart’s enduring commitment to fostering sustainability in the world of art and beyond.