This statement by Henri
Ciriani, was presented by Maitre Didier Bernheim in his plea before the
Marseilles T.G.I. on December 17 2012. In Maitre Bernheim's words: "it
reveals what motivates his demand and illustrates the degree to which his
integrity as author has been violated."
The extension to the Musée Archeologique in Arles
which the Conseil Général des Bouches du Rhône is in process of implementing, is
radically at odds with the studies I patiently conducted during the first phase
of the 1983 competition, followed by year-long consultations with the curators
before concluding the second phase, then during those years taking account of
departmental and regional fund-raising activities, application of the accolade
"Grand Projet" by the government of François Mitterand, a European
Union grant, finalising the brief for tendering, plan modifications to
integrate a research centre, preparation of the dossiers for consultants and
spatial adjustments to accommodate their physical requirements to meet an
on-site starting date August 1989. These six years of work, which I in no way
regret, were necessary to create a perfect solution. By 'perfect' I wish to
indicate that it is a totality, one indivisible work, complete. It responds
totally to the requirements of the brief, while remaining loyal to the
generating theories. The myriad modifications, however small, which come with
building realisation, received my undivided, patient attention to ensure a
unique œuvre. I am proud of this, and both critics and architects consider this
to have been the culmination of my life's work, my masterpiece. The Arles
Museum encompasses my spirit. Whenever I am introduced to audiences across the
world, Arles, and my other museum at Peronne, are cited. If I permit my work to
suffer this degradation, my reputation likewise will endure a similar fate.
(translation by Allen Cunningham)
