The sculpture “En Equilibre”
by Guela Tsouladze in Paris.
Written by George Alexandrakis
On the streets of Paris, amidst the buildings, bicycles, and countless shops, the work of Guela Tsouladze emerges. Born in Georgia to a French mother and a Georgian father, Tsouladze creates a unique composition of cultural references that is reflected in his art. In Québec Square, near the Saint-Germain-des-Prés metro station, his impressive 2024 sculpture En Equilibre (In Balance) adorns the public space, as part of the celebrations for the Paris Olympic Games.
The 4.5-meter-tall sculpture depicts a figure performing an acrobatic feat, balancing upside down on one hand while holding a heart in the other. The human figure, made of metal, appears to float, emitting a sense of lightness and balance, while simultaneously revealing the inherent difficulty of the task — the same challenge faced by an acrobat, where every movement demands attention to detail.
The work conveys a message of hope and love but hints that these values are not achieved without effort. The acrobatic stance may symbolize the fluidity and vulnerability of love, which, despite its simplicity, requires absolute dedication and focus. As in life, the expression of the most essential emotions can pose a challenge for the modern individual. With the simplicity of his sculpture, Tsouladze invites us to reflect on the very notion of balance and expression.
Observing the work in the heart of Paris, it becomes clear that Guela Tsouladze’s art is not merely a statement. It is a reminder of the truth that lies in simplicity and the perseverance required to keep it alive.
