Niki de Saint Phalle: Life & Work 1978–1983

 
Niki makes first models related to the figures that will be represented in the Tarot Garden, and foundations are laid in 1978. In 1980, construction begins on the first architectural sculpture, The High Priestess, representing female creativity and strength. Niki will spend the major part of the next ten years on site receiving assistance from many friends and supporters. In 1982, she moves into The Empress, a building designed in the shape of a sphinx that serves as her studio and home.

In 1979, Niki becomes interested in linear sculpture-drawings in space and makes the Skinnies. This series of totem-like pieces often have colored lights and elements suspended by string.

In 1980, the Ulm Museum organizes the first retrospective of Niki's graphic work. She receives a major retrospective at the Musée National d'Art Moderne, Centre Georges Pompidou, Paris, which travels around Europe. She also exhibits in Japan.

Niki creates the first of her snake chairs, vases, and lamps that same year.

Niki creates a perfume, with a sculptural vial, that bears her name for the Jaqueline Cochran Company in 1982. The money from the perfume goes to finance the Tarot Garden.

Niki and Tinguely collaborate on a fountain next to the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris. It is an homage to Igor Stravinsky.

In 1983, Niki designs prints for a project to support the Temporary Contemporary in Los Angeles. This work, in the form of a pictographic letter, expresses her early awareness and concern for those afflicted by AIDS. She continues to be involved in AIDS prevention and education efforts. The same year the Stuart Foundation commissions a sculpture, Sun God, for the campus of the University of California at San Diego. Niki suffers her first bouts of recurring and debilitating attacks of rheumatoid arthritis.

 
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