The art of watchmaking and the world of astrology has been intertwined since mankind could conceptualize time pieces. For Swiss manufacturers Jaeger-LeCoultre, complications linked to the universe and astrology are a very important part of their history. Now, Jaeger-LeCoultre has brought its The Stellar Odyssey exhibition to the Middle East.
The exhibition is staged in a spectacular pavilion that is currently floating on the waters of the Dubai Fountain, downtown, with the magnificent Burj Khalifa serving as its backdrop. The exhibition takes visitors on a journey through time and space and celebrates the relationship between the measurement of time and the world of astronomy.
“The Stella Odyssey is a deeply immersive experience, inviting you to explore the wonders that we can observe in our night sky and their symbolic relationship with the art of watchmaking,” said Catherine Renier, CEO of Jaeger-LeCoultre. “Because the ancient cultures of the Middle East played a seminal role in the origins of time measurement, we are truly honoured to begin the world tour exhibition here in Dubai.”
Among the immersive experiences on show at The Stellar Odyssey, Jaeger-Le Coultre has brought its new art installation, Passengers: Through Time by French artist Gaullaume Marmin. The Dubai exhibition will mark the world debut of the installation that was specially commissioned by the manufacturer. The endless reflections and astonishing perspectives invite visitors to reflect on the fundamental question of what time really is.
“Jaeger-LeCoultre’s celestial theme resonates very strongly with me because, working with light and sound, we are at the crossroads of scientific, artistic, philosophical, even mystical questions,” said the artist. “I also have a strong desire to take art out of the galleries and to invest in the public space, so it’s a great privilege t invite a wider public to experience my art as part of The Stellar Odyssey.”
The Vallee de Joux-based watchmaker also invited world-renowned mixologist Matthias Giroud to curate a special menu of cocktails. The mixologist, regarded as an alchemist-artist in his field, has experimented with and explored celestial inspirations with intriguing flavours from the manufacture’s home.
The Stellar Odyssey exhibition runs until February 23rd at the Dubai Fountains Downtown.
For more time-inspired stories, be sure to visit our dedicated watch pages.
