Former Nazi Submarine Base Reborn as World’s Largest Digital Art Gallery
History of the Submarine Base
During World War II, the French coast was dotted with massive concrete bunkers designed to protect German submarines from air attacks. One such bunker, located in Bordeaux, France, is now home to the world’s largest digital art gallery, Bassins de Lumières.
Constructed in 1941 using forced labor, the bunker was operational by 1943. It was large enough to accommodate and repair 15 submarines, and despite being the target of bombing raids, it sustained minimal damage due to its robust construction.
Transformation into an Art Gallery
After the war, the bunker lay abandoned until artists began to take interest in its unique concrete structure. However, significant safety upgrades were necessary before it could become a public attraction.
Culturespaces, a group behind other successful digital art projects, invested over $15 million to transform the bunker into Bassins de Lumières. The gallery features 90 video projectors, 80 speakers, and over 60 miles of optical cables, creating an immersive and awe-inspiring artistic experience.
Inaugural Exhibitions
Bassins de Lumières opened its doors in June 2020 with two inaugural exhibitions:
- Gustav Klimt: Gold and Color: This exhibition showcases the iconic works of Austrian painter Gustav Klimt, known for his gilded aesthetic and sensual portraits.
- Paul Klee: Painting Music: This exhibition pays tribute to the abstract creations of German artist Paul Klee, whose works are characterized by their vibrant colors and musical inspiration.
Immersive Artwork in a Unique Setting
The concrete walls of the submarine pens serve as canvases for the projected artwork, which spans over 130,000 square feet. Visitors can explore the cavernous bunker along walkways, experiencing the immersive artwork from different perspectives.
The sheer scale and grandeur of the space, combined with the stunning digital projections, create a truly unforgettable artistic experience.
Pandemic Precautions
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Bassins de Lumières has implemented safety measures to ensure the well-being of visitors. These measures include:
- Time-slot reservations
- Mask-wearing requirements
- Hand sanitizing stations
- Social distancing guidelines
- Body temperature screenings
A New Chapter for a Historic Site
The transformation of the Nazi submarine base into Bassins de Lumières is a testament to the power of art to repurpose and reclaim even the most unlikely spaces. This unique gallery offers an unparalleled artistic experience, combining history, architecture, and cutting-edge technology to create a truly memorable destination.