On April 15, 2019 the world watched Notre Dame burn. It was a surreal 48 hours that followed -- awaiting news on the damage, grateful for what survived, amazed that no lives were lost. (photo below by Christophe Petit Tesson)
On every trip to Paris, I would always stop in at Notre Dame. It was a comfort to marvel at the work of so many artists, dating back to the 1200s, and to see a building that had lasted through revolution and two World Wars. I would always light candles. (the rest of the photos in this post are mine, from 2016 and 2017).
Now Notre Dame begins its own renaissance. New masters of old arts will be called on. Their skills will be part of the cathedral's future.
Restoration at Notre Dame had been an ongoing project. Prior to the fire, funding was always in short supply. With this tragic event, the worlds love for Notre Dame has answered the call to support reconstruction efforts.
The roof and spire are gone, but what survives is a miracle. The relics. The altar. Three rose windows.
The rescue efforts are a cinematic story:
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/04/17/world/europe/statues-notre-dame-relics.html?smid=nytcore-ios-share
We all embrace Paris. We mourn this tragic event, but we look forward with hope for the future of Notre Dame.
New Yorker cover "Our Lady" by Bob Staake.
Link for New Yorker story on the cover:
https://www.newyorker.com/culture/cover-story/cover-story-2019-04-29?
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