Overview
Synopsis
A translation of a French-language play, Art is set in Paris and revolves around a discussion between three friends--Serge, Marc and Yvan. When Serge buys a large and very expensive painting for 200,000 francs. However, the canvas is completely white with just a few white lines. While Serge is very proud of his latest painting, the reaction of his friends does not mirror his own sentiments. Marc responds with shock and anger, labeling it as a “piece of white sh#t”. But does he dislike the painting, or Serge’s independent thought? In turn, Yvan acts as the peacemaker, trying to mediate the hostility between his friends. While he laughs about the ridiculous nature of the painting with Marc, he also reassures Serge that he likes the white canvas. However, his attempts at brokering peace fail and Serge and Marc’s anger is redirected him. As the discussion moves from the theoretical to the personal, the three friends are forced to ask questions not only about the nature of art, but about the nature of friendship. As they attack each other about their various personal failures, Serge, Marc, and Yvan risk ruining their friendship forever.
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Context
Art is not divided into acts and scenes in the traditional manner, but it does nevertheless fall into sections, numbered 1–17.
Art premiered at the Comedie des Champs-Elysees theatre in Paris in 1994. It was then translated by Christopher Hampton and premiered at London’s Wyndham’s Theatre in 1996.
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Guide Written By:
Alexandra Appleton
Writer, editor and theatre researcher