Nestled along the serene banks of the Meuse River, the charming city of Dinant, Belgium, serves as a canvas for the extraordinary “Art on Sax” exhibition. This unique showcase pays homage to Dinant’s most illustrious son, Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, born here in 1814. I had the pleasure of experiencing this exhibition firsthand, and I’m eager to share Dinant’s vibrancy, history, and musical soul through the lens of “Art on Sax.”
Don’t play the saxophone. Let it play you.
~ Charlie Parker
The House of Sax: A Journey’s Beginning
The journey through the “Art on Sax” exhibition ideally begins at the House of Sax, a museum dedicated to the life and inventions of Adolphe Sax. Here, visitors are not just walking through a building; they are stepping into a narrative that weaves together innovation, art, and resilience.
The exhibition within the House of Sax sets the tone, offering a deep dive into the historical significance of the saxophone and its impact on music genres worldwide. The intimate setting allows for a personal connection with Sax’s legacy, making it clear that this instrument was not merely an invention but a revolution in sound.
Charles de Gaulle Bridge: Art in Suspension
Perhaps the most visually striking element of the “Art on Sax” exhibition is on the Charles de Gaulle Bridge. Adorned with oversized saxophones, each artfully designed by artists from countries across the globe, the bridge becomes a symbol of unity and diversity.
These saxophone sculptures are unique designs that stand on the Charles de Gaulle Bridge, symbolizing Dinant’s pride and joy. The bridge connects two important aspects of the city’s history, Adolphe Sax, and Charles de Gaulle, making it a canvas that narrates Dinant’s contributions to the world.
The saxophones in Dinant are ambassadors of the city’s identity and the global significance of the instrument. Each sculpture celebrates the diversity of music and culture that the saxophone has inspired across continents. Painted and crafted by artists from different countries, the saxophones showcase the global tapestry of music.
“Art on Sax” on Charles de Gaulle Bridge is a cultural landmark that attracts music lovers, artists, and travelers. It embodies Adolphe Sax’s innovative spirit and musical legacy, whose invention of the saxophone touched hearts worldwide.
Walking across this bridge, one can’t help but feel suspended in a melody, with each saxophone telling its own cultural tale. This global tribute reflects Dinant’s pride in its contribution to the world of music and its welcoming spirit, inviting everyone to partake in this universal language.
Scattered Harmonies: The City as a Gallery
Saxophone sculptures are scattered throughout a city famous for its musical history. They tell stories of innovation, resilience, and the power of music to unite communities. Crafted with attention to detail, they pay homage to the saxophone’s birth and celebrate the city’s musical heritage.
Each saxophone represents the diverse influences that shaped the city’s musical identity. The variety of styles mirrors the evolution of music, reflecting the city’s cultural melting pot.
Amidst the bustling squares and quiet corners, the saxophones also symbolize the city’s resilience, echoing stories of overcoming adversity through the power of art.
In the shadows of historic buildings and in the glow of modern streets, these instruments stand as guardians of the legacy, ensuring that the rhythm of the past continues to pulse through the heart of the city.
These installations, scattered like notes on a staff, guide explorers through Dinant’s picturesque landscape, each stop adding a layer to the city’s melodious narrative.
Reflections on Legacy and Art
As I wandered through Dinant, absorbing the sights and sounds of the “Art on Sax” exhibition, I was reminded of the power of music and art to transcend boundaries. Dinant may be a small city, but its contribution to the world is immeasurable, beautifully captured through this exhibition.
For travelers seeking a unique cultural experience, Dinant offers not just a journey through the history of a musical instrument but an immersive exploration of creativity, heritage, and the unifying language of art.
Leaflet: Sax and the City
Everyone is invited to follow the Adolphe Sax itinerary at their own pace. This itinerary includes several sights related to Sax and his legacy.
A free leaflet titled “Sax and the City” is available at the tourist office located at 8 Quai Cadoux, Dinant (Tel.: 082 – 22 90 38) and also at the Cultural Centre (37 Rue Grande, 5500 Dinant). The leaflet contains a city map that shows the location of each sight, so it should be easy to follow.
Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything.
~Plato
