The Centre Pompidou in Paris Has Disappeared

Text and photos by Chen Chi-Hsiang. After leaving you for a few months, I no longer see your majestic view; my art palace—the Centre Pompidou in Paris—has disappeared. It must be Grandpa Duchamp’s fault. No, it was Joseph Beuys playing tricks. Or perhaps it’s just an April Fool’s prank. Haha, don’t be sad. None of that is true. Pompidou (1977–2017) is already forty years old. Its outdated and embarrassing appearance needs some cosmetic surgery. This must be the government’s gift for its fortieth birthday. Just wait. After a while of beauty treatments, it will refresh your senses and continue to lead the trend. Happy birthday to you, my dear. I will continue to embrace you passionately. Note: Later I learned this was a trick by Pompidou staff striking—haha.