Maman (Spider)
Louise Bourgeois' monumental Maman spider sculpture, a symbol of maternal protection and artistic power, captivating viewers worldwide.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Maman (Spider)
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Louise Bourgeois' monumental Maman spider sculpture, a symbol of maternal protection and artistic power, captivating viewers worldwide.
"This eye-catching spider is a statue to remember. It is both tacky and intimidating."
📸 Best Photo Spots
Get creative with angles to capture Maman's scale against the cityscape. Weekdays are best for fewer people.
📍 Location, Location, Location
Maman is often found outdoors, free to view. Check its specific location before you go!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Spider Sculpture
Base of Mori Tower, Roppongi Hills (Tokyo) or outside Guggenheim Museum (Bilbao)
Louise Bourgeois' monumental bronze spider, a striking symbol of maternal protection and fear.
Roppongi Hills Setting
Roppongi Hills, Tokyo
Admire Maman against the backdrop of Tokyo's modern skyscrapers.
Guggenheim Museum's Companion
Outside Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao
Experience Maman as an integral part of the Guggenheim's iconic architecture.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Maman
Understanding Maman's Location
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best Photo Spots
Get creative with angles to capture Maman's scale against the cityscape. Weekdays are best for fewer people.
📍 Location, Location, Location
Maman is often found outdoors, free to view. Check its specific location before you go!
🤔 Understanding the Art
Consider the symbolism of the spider as a maternal figure. It's a powerful piece by Louise Bourgeois.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Photo Spots
Get creative with angles to capture Maman's scale against the cityscape. Weekdays are best for fewer people.
📍 Location, Location, Location
Maman is often found outdoors, free to view. Check its specific location before you go!
🤔 Understanding the Art
Consider the symbolism of the spider as a maternal figure. It's a powerful piece by Louise Bourgeois.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Maman to be an impressive and memorable sculpture, often described as both striking and intimidating. Its outdoor placement and free access are highly appreciated, though crowds can make photography challenging. The artwork's scale and artistic merit are consistently praised, making it a worthwhile sight for art lovers and tourists alike.
"It's was an interesting sculpture resembling a spider placed in front of the museum, along the riverside. Worth the visit.
The area is probably the most visited by tourists, therefore not easy to take good shots as there are a lot of people.
The entrance to the museum will be on the other side of the building."
CJ
"Maman is a large scale installation situated in the outdoor area behind the museum and alongside the Nervoin River. This is the work of French-American sculptor Louise Bourgeois (1999) who is best known for her many giant spider sculptures which can be found in various museums around the world.
What you will see is a 9-metre tall giant bronze spider brilliantly placed along the promenade where you can see and take photos with the brilliant architecture of the museum in the background. It is great that Maman in the free access area as well, allowing all to enjoy this work of art."
Brad
"Maman is a must-see for art lovers and anyone visiting Bilbao. It’s an iconic part of the Guggenheim experience and a testament to the innovative spirit of contemporary art."
BIDEMI OLATAYO
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Maman in Tokyo is located at the base of the Mori Tower in Roppongi Hills. You can reach Roppongi Hills via the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line or Oedo Line to Roppongi Station.
Yes, Maman is typically located in free-access outdoor areas, allowing everyone to admire this impressive work of art.
In Bilbao, Maman is situated outdoors behind the Guggenheim Museum, alongside the Nervión River.
Yes, there are seven identical Maman sculptures located in various museums and public spaces globally.
To get the best shots, try visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays. Experiment with different angles to capture its full scale.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Maman is an outdoor installation and is generally free to view. You do not need a ticket to see the sculpture itself.
As Maman is an outdoor sculpture, it is accessible at all times. However, the surrounding areas might have specific hours.
The outdoor areas where Maman is typically displayed are usually accessible. However, it's advisable to check the specific venue's accessibility information.
Touching the sculpture is generally not permitted to preserve the artwork. Please admire it from a respectful distance.
Some museums or city tours may include Maman in their itinerary. It's best to check with local tour operators or the museum directly.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, making them ideal for capturing stunning photos of Maman.
Generally, personal photography is allowed in outdoor public spaces. However, commercial photography might require permission.
Try framing Maman with the surrounding architecture or cityscape for a more dynamic shot. Getting close can emphasize its immense scale.
Use a wide-angle lens to capture the full sculpture. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions to avoid blur.
Drone usage is often restricted in urban areas and around public art. It's crucial to check local regulations before flying a drone.
🎫 🤔 Art & Meaning
Louise Bourgeois saw spiders as symbols of maternal protection and weaving. Maman represents her complex relationship with her mother.
The Maman sculpture was created by the renowned French-American artist Louise Bourgeois.
The original Maman sculpture was created in 1999.
Maman is typically constructed from bronze, stainless steel, and marble.
Bourgeois associated spiders with her mother's skill as a tapestry restorer and her protective nature, despite also acknowledging their frightening aspect.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the full grandeur of Maman, or use a telephoto lens to focus on specific details of its construction. Be patient, as popular viewing spots can get crowded; visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours will significantly improve your chances of getting unobstructed shots.
🏛️ Art Lovers & Museum Goers
Consider visiting Maman in conjunction with a museum tour if available, as guides can offer deeper insights into Bourgeois' work and the sculpture's significance. Even without a formal tour, appreciating Maman as a standalone masterpiece is a rewarding experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Louise Bourgeois' Maman
The presence of Maman in various global locations, such as Tokyo's Roppongi Hills and outside the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, has made it an iconic landmark. Each iteration, while identical in design, interacts uniquely with its surroundings, offering different perspectives on the sculpture's imposing presence. The fact that it's often placed in free-access public spaces underscores Bourgeois' desire for her art to be accessible and provoke thought among a wide audience.
Visitors often remark on the sculpture's dual nature – simultaneously beautiful and intimidating. The delicate yet strong legs, the polished metallic sheen, and the sheer size contribute to its unforgettable impact. It serves as a powerful reminder of the artist's ability to transform common fears into compelling works of art that resonate deeply with viewers.
Experiencing Maman: Tips for Visitors
Photography is a popular activity, and visitors often try to capture Maman against the backdrop of its urban or architectural setting. Experiment with different angles to emphasize its size and presence. While personal photography is usually permitted, be mindful of any restrictions in place, especially regarding commercial use or drones.
Beyond the visual spectacle, take a moment to consider the artwork's meaning. Louise Bourgeois intended Maman to represent maternal strength and protection, drawing from her own experiences. Understanding this context can deepen your appreciation for this powerful and iconic piece of public art.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit