M. Chat
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M. Chat (also known as Monsieur Chat and Mr Chat) is the name of a graffiti cat that appeared in Orléans, France and then in Paris and other European cities around 2001. The graffiti appeared most frequently on chimneys, but has been sighted in other places such as train platforms as well. It has also made appearances at political ralleys. Since the beginning, the originator of the street art wanted to remain anonymous. But since March 2007, and due to an issue with police during painting in Orléans, we know his name: Thoma Vuille.
The yellow cartoon cat is characterized by its large Cheshire Cat grin. The cat is most often portrayed in a running pose, but has also been variously depicted waving signal flags, bouncing on a ball, sporting angel wings, and waving in greeting at the entrance to a train station. It is sometimes accompanied by tagline M. CHAT in small letters.
A 2004 documentary by filmmaker Chris Marker, Chats Perchés (titled The Case of the Grinning Cat in English), used the phenomenon of M. Chat's appearance across France as a springboard for a reflection on the state of the country post-9/11. When the film was shown at the Pompidou Center, an enormous version of the cat was temporarily painted in the plaza outside.[1]
[edit] References
- ^ Cat Power- Chris Marker and his feline friend document post–9-11 France from the Village Voice, December 19, 2006.
[edit] External links
- MonsieurChat.free.fr - A french website documenting appearances of the graffiti cat.
- [http://omarperezsantiago.blogspot.com/2007/11/monsieur-chat-clausura-feria-del-libro.html A Chilean website documenting appearances of the Monsieur Chat in Feria del Libro, Santiago de Chile, November 2007.
