The Louvre-Lens explores the concept of 'cuteness' by pairing internet-famous kittens with classical art, revealing a deep biological and emotional connection.
Louvre-Lens exhibition theme
The Louvre-Lens museum in northern France is hosting an exhibition that explores the concept of "cuteness" through nearly 300 artworks, including internet-famous videos of kittens and classical paintings. Biological basis of cuteness
The idea of "cuteness" has roots in biology, with the concept of "Kindchenschema" developed in 1943 by ethologist Konrad Lorenz. This theory identifies specific physical traits in infants that trigger protective instincts in adults. Artworks evoking emotional response
The exhibition includes pieces like the bronze rabbit by Sandoz and Tamara de Lempicka’s Mère et enfant (1932), which are designed to evoke feelings of empathy, wonder, and pleasure through their portrayal of soft, infantile features. Blending modern and classical art
By pairing internet-popular content with classical works such as Nicolas Poussin’s Amours combattant (1626-1627), the museum aims to explore how the appeal of cuteness transcends time and medium.
