Niki de Saint Phalle The Grotto

The unique and spectacular oeuvre of Niki de Saint Phalle (1930-2002) comprises such well-known works as her Shooting Paintings, Nanas, and the Tarot Garden in Tuscany. The Grotto in Hanover, which was redesigned and redecorated according to her plans, is the last large-scale project completed during her lifetime. This imposing artistic legacy is situated in the Baroque section of the Herrenhausen Gardens, one of Germany's most beautiful park landscapes. Originally composed of shells, crystals, glass, and minerals, the Grotto's interior decor was destroyed during the 18th century. Transformed by Niki de Saint Phalle, the site has once again become a place of enchantment. The artist decorated the octagonal central space and the two rooms flanking it on the right and left with magnificent mosaics made of colored glass, mirrors, pebbles, and a host of painted and sculpted figures. This splendidly illustrated volume invites readers to stroll through the Grotto and provides a wealth of information on the history, the furnishings and decorations, and the symbolism of this last major work of art realized by Niki de Saint Phalle. Book jacket.