COGNAC, FRANCE
The Wings of Courage
‘Each one of us alone, is, solely, responsible for all of us.’
-Antoine de Saint Exupéry
Constructed from aluminum to accurately represent WWII-era plane materials, The Wings of Courage (Les Ailes du Courage) is a sculptural interpretation of wartime aircraft wings. It consists of three wings: two upright, with the largest four-meter-long, bearing the inscription of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry in letters and supported by the smaller wing. Both are standing on the wing laying on the ground, which bears the same inscription in Braille. This artistic, inclusive choice by Anilore ensures every visitor will have a uniquely intimate experience, ultimately heightening their emotional connection with the piece and creating a uniting experience.
Preparatory sketch
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3D rendering
3D rendering
In celebration of renowned humanitarian author, poet, and combattant Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, the art installation was unveiled in Cognac, France on June 27th, 2014, the anniversary of de Saint-Exupéry’s final, cataclysmic flight. The debut was more profound than a conventional reveal in that it was attended by French military Veterans and descendants of Saint-Exupéry. The day consisted of a major military parade and spectacular aerial displays, including the actual, fully restored plane in which Saint-Exupéry took his last flight (pictured below flying directly over The Wings of Courage during the ceremony).
Braille reading of St Exupery: 'each of us is alone, responsible for all of us'
Inauguration with French ministry of defense St Exupery heir and military officials
As every one of Anilore’s works connects to the others, the families associated with this work have lent their handprints as well as Antoine de St Exupery’s to Anilore’s forthcoming project, VITAE, through this act. Anilore successfully puts into practice her philosophy of connecting people globally through time and space.