The World's Faire

While I expected my visit to the World’s Faire in Paris to be informative and inspirational, I had no idea what a life-changing event it would be. Being fortunate enough to be living in such a time of tranquility and peace, I was able to enjoy awe-inspiring beauty in all realms, from the scientific to the artistic.

The world is becoming smaller and smaller, as we come together to share our modern innovations. The gallery of machines displayed technology from all parts of the world. As the power of electricity has been harnessed, the electric light bulb carried the show. Not only was Edison’s light bulb featured in various displays, it in fact lit up the entire museum. In particular, the Eiffel Tower itself was lighted with a gigantic external light fixture, making it a beacon for the entire city of Paris. In keeping with the idea of the world becoming a smaller place, the invention of the telephone by Bell and Watson evidenced a new world of cheap, fast, and universal communication. No longer would distance separate ideas. Similarly, beautiful creations of sound and video would now be permanent, thanks to the twin inventions of Edison: the phonograph and the moving picture machine. At the same time the world is in a rare state of peace, technology has brought to the world the ability to share and enjoy our good fortune.

The World’s faire displayed the latest and greatest of artistic endeavors. Of special note was the display of the modern artistic style known as Art Nouveau. Great artists such as Alphonse Mucha and Antonio Gaudí displayed their works. Their works entailed intricate designs focusing on a more "natural form." Art began to feel and look a bit more realistic through its greater depth and applied to creations such as jewelry, furniture and architecture. The intricate linearity and the flowing curves demonstrated a beauty of the natural world, so appropriate at this historic time of world peace. The idea that form should follow function was a memorable learning opportunity for me.

Finally, being able to witness these creations of beauty along with people from all corners of the globe made the day especially meaningful. Countries no longer hide their creations, but instead share it with the rest of the world. Will today signify a future of continued peace and harmony? I cannot say. But I do know that this the hope off all guests who were fortunate enough to visit the Paris World’s Faire.