“A team of machine builders have set up their workshop in the industrial warehouses of the former shipyards, at the heart of the Ile de Nantes. The designers let their imaginations roam from the treetops, the savannah to the ocean depths, building a bestiary of living machines to populate this area under redevelopment. The Great Elephant, the Marine Worlds and the Heron Tree are urban sculptures open to the public. Like doors to the world of dreams and magical journeys, they give this island a mysterious feel as if we were back to the time when the vessels set sail to travel around the world.” François Delarozière and Pierre Orefice
		An extraordinary artistic adventure François Delarozière and Pierre Orefice are actively involved in the renewal of street theatre and urban performances in Europe. They have been exploring machinery and objects in movement for fifteen years. Their common involvement with the Royal de Luxe theatre company and their own creations are at the origin of their ideas on bringing art to the public. In the Gallery, machinists work on the Machines in direct contact with the public. Visitors guided by the machinists can even operate the controls. The public is genuinely fascinated by the art of movement and motion. These creations are worlds away from the universe of traditional amusement parks.   Demonstrating the creative process The two designers also chose to put the entire creative process on display, from the very first sketches drawn by François Delarozière. The materials are in their natural state, and the mechanisms are all visible. The building process can be seen for all the sculptures, whether steel or wood. Being able to watch the Workshop in activity enhances this unprecedented tour / performance that is both entertaining and educational.  Short clip of Machines de l'Ile >> The co-authors :Find out more The construction site : Find out more