Friday, January 20, 2017

Week 3 - Shannon Trinh

France has a history of romanticism, philosophy, and embracing culture such as the arts. For example, in the reading about Colbert (The Minister of Finance under King Louis XIV), the author states that: “The Academy of Painting and Sculpture, The Academy of Architecture, The Academy of Inscriptions, the Academy of Music, and the School at Rome were expected to establish higher standards of instruction and taste.” This was Colbert’s way of re-branding and innovating France at the time, as these programs were intended to provide a lavish and luxurious way of living for the people. Everyone would be equipped with these one of a kind and tasteful talents and skills.

“France’s national image was the product of a collaboration between a king with a vision and some of the most brilliant artists, artisans, and craftspeople of all time” (DeJean Joan).

Today, the people of France continue to play by these strengths and take pride in their history in order to continue to brand themselves, building France’s reputation as the destination for romance, art, fashion, cuisine, and more. I think that the French government planning is strongest in tourism. In 2012, France was the #1 destination for international tourist arrivals (Gouvernment.fr). The government and industry take value in their efforts to preserve/globalize famous landmarks, art pieces, and architecture such as the Eiffel Tower, Mona Lisa, and the Louvre, the first things that come in mind when thinking about the country. Millions crowd around these pieces and buildings each year to experience the once in a lifetime opportunity. The fashion industry is also highly regarded there, giving off auras of luxury, chic, and attitude. Paris holds huge annual fashion events, welcoming the biggest celebrities to show off their most expensive and flashy brand names (Louis Vuitton, Dior, Chanel). Furthermore, people think of France when planning destination weddings, because that is the place where romance and passion seem to come alive and to thrive. French is also portrayed as one of the most romantic and graceful languages in the world, thanks to the industry efforts in branding and glorifying French people. (Hollywood also participates in France’s branding – creating idealistic, cheesy love stories that can “happen to anyone” such as the overplayed marriage proposal that takes place in front of the Eiffel Tower, etc).

 Question: Has France influenced other countries to heavily invest in the arts?



http://www.entreprises.gouv.fr/files/files/directions_services/etudes-et-statistiques/stats-tourisme/chiffres-cles/chiffres_cles13_gb.pdf

http://www.taste-fulltours.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/bampw-couple-france-love-paris-Favim.com-117486.jpg


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