The Buddy Bears in Paris

Lesotho's Bear

The United Buddy Bears are in Paris until November 18th. I saw them a few weeks back and enthusiastically went about photographing these colourful giant two metre bear sculptures. There are 140 of them - representing the countries recognised by the UN-  standing boldly, hand in hand as a sign of tolerance and peaceful coexistence. The exhibition is meant to celebrate twin cities, Paris and Berlin, and to mark the 50th anniversary of the Élysée Treaty and Franco-German relations. They are a creative addition to Champ de Mars. I had a great deal of fun searching for, and photographing Lesotho and South Africa's bears.

More bears can be seen here.

South Africa's Bear -2nd from the right

 

Ghana's Kente-clad bear

Cuba's cigar-smoking bear