PARIS – The bustling Boulevard Haussman, home to Galeries Lafayette and Printemps shops, will soon welcome polar bears and gorillas amongst its chic boutiques.

It’s all of the work of renowned animal sculptor Michel Bassompierre, who will unveil his largest sculpture so far on the opening ceremony Feb. 1. The brand new piece, titled “Le Mélèze,” stands just above 13 feet and can tower over the famed shopping street. An open-air exhibition of 11 pieces will run until March 31.

Other pieces from Bassompierre’s series “Fragile Colosses” will even be on display on the nearby Mogador Theater. The sculptor is thought for his depictions of endangered species in bronze and marble.

The exhibit, brought together by the Comité Haussmann association and Galeries Bartoux, is supposed to shine a highlight on the existential environmental threats species face because of climate change, human encroachment on their habitats and ecosystem collapse.

“I’m one among the character lovers, who’re in awe of life. Our duty could also be to share our sense of beauty to make others admire the wonders they pass by without noticing,” said Bassompierre. “I hope my exhibit ‘Fragile Colosses’ within the Haussmann district, one of the beautiful within the capital, will make as many individuals as possible aware of the necessity to respect and preserve our surroundings.”

The exhibit is supposed to depict animals in a special light, and was created with the support of primatologist Sabrina Krief and Cesar-winning actor Jacques Weber. Bassompierre is thought for the way in which he transforms animals into soft, rounded forms to depict a more peaceful nature. The sculptures function ambassadors to assist humans see what are sometimes regarded as fearsome animals from a latest perspective.

“In the center of one of the prestigious Parisian neighborhoods, the monumental sculptures of Michel Bassompierre will raise awareness this winter of the threatened fantastic thing about nature. We’re joyful to hitch forces with the Comité Haussmann, whose values we share, on this exceptional exhibition which is able to awaken and amaze people’s consciences,” Galeries Bartoux noted.

“Day-after-day, we’re committed to offering our visitors a special experience of Paris through artistic events within the urban space, accessible to all, like this exhibition. We’re very joyful to associate ourselves for the primary time with the Galeries Bartoux to supply our visitors an exceptional exhibition and create a singular route in the center of our emblematic district of the capital,” added Comité Haussmann president Alexandre Liot.

The works can be on display at from Feb. 1 to March 31. Pieces from the gathering were last on display in Paris’ Jardin des Plantes in 2021.