Dear friends,
Join us in welcoming Notre-Dame de Paris to Houston!
The Houston Public Library hosts exhibitions on a regular basis throughout its system, and the Exhibition Hall of the Julia Ideson Building is welcoming the latest treasure to visit HPL. From June 30 through August 2, the Ideson Building will host tools, schematics, and photographs used by the teams who carefully restored Notre-Dame de Paris.
On April 15, 2019, the world watched in horror as fire engulfed the cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris, one of the most treasured structures of the last seven centuries and a cultural landmark of universal value. Not only does Notre-Dame embody the soul of global–and French–heritage, it is also a testament to centuries of belief, history, art, and architectural brilliance. Its restoration transcends mere reconstruction; it signifies humanity’s commitment to preserving the cultural treasures that bind us all.
The ceremonial reopening of Notre-Dame on December 27, 2024, reinforced the importance of preserving and cherishing our global heritage for today, and for the future.
This exhibit celebrates the extraordinary skills of the craftsmen and artisans responsible for bringing the cathedral back to life. Because of their talents, Notre-Dame de Paris has been saved to inspire future generations.
Thanks to generous supporters like you, the Houston Public Library Foundation is proud to sponsor HPL’s world class exhibitions. This exhibition was also generously sponsored by Houston Public Library, City of Houston, Archaeology Now, Villa Albertine – Consulat Général de France à Houston, Alliance Française de Houston, Rebâtir Notre-Dame de Paris, Maison Luquet, Ateliers Perrault, Handshouse Studio, Houston Area Blacksmith’s Association, and the French Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.
We hope that you are able to join us for this wonderful exhibition.
With every best regard,
Nick Sawicki
Executive Director, Houston Public Library Foundation