JR Turns Paris's Pont Neuf into Giant Inflatable Cave
French street artist JR has unveiled an eye-catching temporary installation, La Caverne du Pont Neuf, on Paris's historic Pont Neuf. This inflatable cave, measuring 400 feet by 60 feet, was installed on May 20, 2026, following tests at Orly Airport. The artwork celebrates the bridge’s legacy, including its 1985 wrapping and ties to its stone quarries. Open to the public from June 6 to June 28, the installation coincides with events like Paris Fashion Week and World Music Day. Visitors will enjoy a unique soundscape by Thomas Bangalter of Daft Punk. The project involved around 800 contributors and 25 artisans for fabric stitching.
Key facts
- JR transformed the Pont Neuf into an inflatable cave titled La Caverne du Pont Neuf.
- The installation inflated overnight on May 20, 2026, after weather delays.
- The project was tested in a hangar at Orly Airport.
- It is funded by corporate sponsors and JR's art sales.
- The cave is open from June 6 to June 28, 2026.
- The installation references Christo and Jeanne-Claude's 1985 wrapping of the bridge.
- Thomas Bangalter of Daft Punk created the soundtrack.
- 25 artisans in Brittany hand-stitched the fabric.
Entities
Artists
- JR
- Christo
- Jeanne-Claude
- Thomas Bangalter
Institutions
- Associated Press
- AFP
Locations
- Paris
- France
- Pont Neuf
- Seine River
- Orly Airport
- Brittany
- Louvre
- Milano Centrale
- Pont-Neuf