Lilian Bourgeat tries hard to go beyond the ordinary, both literally and figuratively. He takes great pains to supersize everyday objects (patio furniture, rubber boots, road pylons, public benches, etc.). While preserving their exact original appearance, they are transfigured from banal items to take on extraordinary, and quasi-iconic status.
This is the case with this oversized measuring tape. Indispensable tool for architects, urban planners, workers, and many other trades, the measuring tape is also essential for this artist, who carries one everywhere he goes.
In the heart of Île de Nantes, this work appears as if it were a monument dedicated to the simplicity of an everyday tool – but one which turns constructions from our imagination into concrete reality.
PERMANENT ARTWORK CREATED FOR ESTUAIRE WITH THE SUPPORT OF ADI.
Art work from the same artist
Nantes is transforming
Nantes has been getting a major makeover since 2024.
The city is currently undergoing extensive public works, particularly around Île de Nantes (Quai de la Fosse and the Pont Anne-de-Bretagne bridge). Tram Line 1 will be temporarily suspended from mid-June to late August 2026. The city centre and Parc des Chantiers – Machines de l’Île will remain accessible, thanks to replacement buses and to the pedestrian and cycling routes that will continue to be open. Park-and-ride facilities are available to drivers.
For further information
32 rue La Noue Bras de Fer 44200 Nantes
How to get there?
Parking(s) nearby: Parking Les Machines, Parking Les Nefs, Parking Gloriette 2, Parking Médiathèque, Parking CHU 1
Public transport: Gare de l'État, Prairie au Duc, Médiathèque
Self-service bicycles: Station Naolib Vélo libre-service Palais de justice (n°44), Station Naolib Vélo libre-service Machine de l'île (n°43), Station Naolib Vélo libre-service Prairie au duc (n°45), Station Naolib Vélo libre-service École d'architecture (n°77), Station Naolib Vélo libre-service Médiathèque (n°34), Station Naolib Vélo libre-service Brunelière (n°41)
