Marta Minujín's Parthenon of Books: A Monument to Democracy
In December 1983, Argentine artist Marta Minujín erected 'El Partenón de libros' (The Parthenon of Books) in downtown Buenos Aires. The 15 x 40 x 15 meter steel structure, covered with 25,000 individually wrapped books, matched the height of the original Parthenon. Built in 17 days and displayed for 5, it was demolished by a crane on December 24, 1984, allowing visitors to take the books. The work was conceived as both 'evolving art' and 'mass participatory art,' symbolizing democracy and education after Argentina's return to democratic rule. The idea emerged from a conversation with Mila Pinto of Viscontea Editorial. After the collapse, 48 prominent figures donated the books to the public and municipal libraries.
Key facts
- Marta Minujín created 'El Partenón de libros' in Buenos Aires in December 1983.
- The structure measured 15 x 40 x 15 meters and was covered with 25,000 books.
- It was built in 17 days and displayed for 5 days.
- The work was demolished by a crane on December 24, 1984.
- After demolition, 48 prominent figures donated the books to the public and libraries.
- The Parthenon of Books was conceived as a symbol of democracy and education.
- The idea originated from a conversation with Mila Pinto of Viscontea Editorial.
- The work is described as 'evolving art' and 'mass participatory art.'
Entities
Artists
- Marta Minujín
Institutions
- Viscontea Editorial
- Ministerio de Cultura de la Ciudad de Buenos Aires
Locations
- Buenos Aires
- Argentina