Extra! Extra! A Giant Whale Stranded on the Banks of the Seine Behind Notre-Dame

Text and photos by Chen Chi-Hsiang

Amazement is a form of happiness.

In today’s world where anything can happen, being surprised and amazed, a giant sperm whale stranded on the banks of the Seine behind Notre-Dame, forming a magnificent and dramatic scene, sparking a commotion and heated discussion among Parisians. As news spread, thousands of curious citizens and tourists flocked to witness it. Everyone asked, “How is this possible? Is what we see really real?” Indeed, when the fake becomes real, the real becomes fake. Is this art or a prank? Since last Friday, a nearly 20-meter-long lifelike giant whale lay beneath the Tournelle Bridge, eyes closed, emitting a scent of salty seawater. A few traces of blood remained around its slightly open mouth. Guards surrounded the whale; some continued spraying water on its body. Several ecologists in white coats, white hats, and gloves moved around, diagnosing and caring for it, trying to uncover the truth. Four black buckets and long knives for cutting whale meat were nearby. The audience seriously cheered for these “veterinary” staff and asked about their status. The entire dramatic scene was like a play unfolding before our eyes. Lemn Sissay said, “The best street theater I’ve ever seen, even unseen on the streets.” Unbeknownst to gods and men, this is an outdoor art exhibition for the Paris Summer Carnival, running until August 5. This lifelike sperm whale is more real than reality, an artwork created by the Belgian Captain Boomer ecological art team. In this dramatic performance event, they explored current nature, environment, and ecology, aiming to raise awareness of marine ecosystems. Captain Boomer is not a practical clown, nor a fool. They insist on originality, holding a vague and humble view of themselves as legendary figures. The Boomer creative team was founded in 2008, headquartered in Antwerp, Belgium. They create site-specific programs exploring the boundary between reality and fiction. Artist leader Bart Van Peel said, “Our work is deliberately sensational. We set an alluring trap. The trap’s meaning challenges people to break a stance, and people find it interesting. We try not to disturb this comforting illusion.” (Note—from Captain Boomer website)