After more than five years since the tragic fire that devastated Notre-Dame Cathedral on April 15, 2019, the historic landmark is set to reopen its doors to the world this weekend. In anticipation of this momentous occasion, photographer Tom HRI has been documenting the cathedral's restoration, a labor that has transformed both the building and the lives of those dedicated to its revival.
Tom HRI's access to the cathedral's worksite has granted him a unique perspective. As he explored the interior, he noted that entering the Nave felt like stepping into a space station rather than a Gothic church. The once breathtaking arches were now concealed by extensive scaffolding while crews worked tirelessly to decontaminate the site, which was contaminated by lead dust released from the roof during the fire.
HRI's photographs capture not only the stark reality of the reconstruction but also the haunting beauty of the site. One particularly striking image shows a bird’s-eye view of the cathedral's interior, taken from where the spire once soared. Here, burnt timber and debris litter the openings, while safety nets are draped below to catch falling remnants. This powerful perspective symbolizes the profound wound inflicted upon Notre-Dame by the fire.
Among HRI's stunning visual accounts are images of the gargoyles adorning the cathedral's façade. While often referred to as gargoyles, many of these figures—specifically the 52 shimira statues lining the bell towers—were crafted during the 19th-century restoration led by architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. HRI captured one remarkable photo of a whimsical baby elephant statue, representing the blend of artistry and reverence that characterizes Notre-Dame. To photograph these statues authentically, he utilized an old 19th-century photographic process, bridging the past with the present.
The restoration process at Notre-Dame has been marked by camaraderie and collaboration among artisans. HRI witnessed firsthand how competitors in the construction field came together, driven by a sense of purpose and pride. These skilled craftsmen, knowing they contributed to something greater than themselves, worked harmoniously to restore the cathedral in a fraction of the time it originally took to build.
Reflecting on the atmosphere of the worksite, HRI noted that the spirit was exceptional. Unlike many large-scale projects, where conflicts can arise, the restoration of Notre-Dame became a unifying endeavor, embodying hope for all involved.
As the reopening of Notre-Dame approaches, HRI is filled with optimism. He views the event as a symbol of hope for France, especially during times when the nation has faced numerous challenges. The fire's memories linger in the hearts of many, but HRI believes that witnessing Notre-Dame reborn is an opportunity for celebration and renewal.
In his words, the reopening serves as a reminder that when the country unites toward a shared goal, incredible things can happen. The cathedral, as a monument of historical and cultural significance, holds various meanings for diverse people, and HRI is excited to see it restored to its former glory.
For Tom HRI, capturing the restoration of Notre-Dame was a dream project, but he acknowledges that there is more work to be done. With plans for a new project in the Alps, he hopes to address the environmental challenges facing our planet—mirroring the collaborative spirit seen during the cathedral's restoration.
By forging a connection between architectural heritage and environmental preservation, HRI seeks to follow in the footsteps of past greats who documented significant transformations. While the reopening of Notre-Dame may signal the close of one chapter, HRI’s commitment to meaningful storytelling through photography continues.
The remarkable journey of Notre-Dame's restoration—illustrated through HRI's lens—captures the resilience of one of the world's most cherished monuments. As we prepare for its reopening, we are reminded of the collective efforts and dedication that have revived this symbol of hope for France and beyond. The celebrations this weekend mark not only the completion of a monumental task but also the reaffirmation of cultural identity and shared values, which remain more critical than ever in these times of change.
Part 1/8:
The Rebirth of Notre-Dame: Insights from Tom HRI
After more than five years since the tragic fire that devastated Notre-Dame Cathedral on April 15, 2019, the historic landmark is set to reopen its doors to the world this weekend. In anticipation of this momentous occasion, photographer Tom HRI has been documenting the cathedral's restoration, a labor that has transformed both the building and the lives of those dedicated to its revival.
A Personal Journey Through Scaffolding and Debris
Part 2/8:
Tom HRI's access to the cathedral's worksite has granted him a unique perspective. As he explored the interior, he noted that entering the Nave felt like stepping into a space station rather than a Gothic church. The once breathtaking arches were now concealed by extensive scaffolding while crews worked tirelessly to decontaminate the site, which was contaminated by lead dust released from the roof during the fire.
Part 3/8:
HRI's photographs capture not only the stark reality of the reconstruction but also the haunting beauty of the site. One particularly striking image shows a bird’s-eye view of the cathedral's interior, taken from where the spire once soared. Here, burnt timber and debris litter the openings, while safety nets are draped below to catch falling remnants. This powerful perspective symbolizes the profound wound inflicted upon Notre-Dame by the fire.
The Soulful Presence of Gothic Statues
Part 4/8:
Among HRI's stunning visual accounts are images of the gargoyles adorning the cathedral's façade. While often referred to as gargoyles, many of these figures—specifically the 52 shimira statues lining the bell towers—were crafted during the 19th-century restoration led by architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. HRI captured one remarkable photo of a whimsical baby elephant statue, representing the blend of artistry and reverence that characterizes Notre-Dame. To photograph these statues authentically, he utilized an old 19th-century photographic process, bridging the past with the present.
Documenting a Collective Effort
Part 5/8:
The restoration process at Notre-Dame has been marked by camaraderie and collaboration among artisans. HRI witnessed firsthand how competitors in the construction field came together, driven by a sense of purpose and pride. These skilled craftsmen, knowing they contributed to something greater than themselves, worked harmoniously to restore the cathedral in a fraction of the time it originally took to build.
Reflecting on the atmosphere of the worksite, HRI noted that the spirit was exceptional. Unlike many large-scale projects, where conflicts can arise, the restoration of Notre-Dame became a unifying endeavor, embodying hope for all involved.
A Moment of Celebration for France
Part 6/8:
As the reopening of Notre-Dame approaches, HRI is filled with optimism. He views the event as a symbol of hope for France, especially during times when the nation has faced numerous challenges. The fire's memories linger in the hearts of many, but HRI believes that witnessing Notre-Dame reborn is an opportunity for celebration and renewal.
In his words, the reopening serves as a reminder that when the country unites toward a shared goal, incredible things can happen. The cathedral, as a monument of historical and cultural significance, holds various meanings for diverse people, and HRI is excited to see it restored to its former glory.
Future Endeavors: Continuing the Legacy
Part 7/8:
For Tom HRI, capturing the restoration of Notre-Dame was a dream project, but he acknowledges that there is more work to be done. With plans for a new project in the Alps, he hopes to address the environmental challenges facing our planet—mirroring the collaborative spirit seen during the cathedral's restoration.
By forging a connection between architectural heritage and environmental preservation, HRI seeks to follow in the footsteps of past greats who documented significant transformations. While the reopening of Notre-Dame may signal the close of one chapter, HRI’s commitment to meaningful storytelling through photography continues.
Conclusion
Part 8/8:
The remarkable journey of Notre-Dame's restoration—illustrated through HRI's lens—captures the resilience of one of the world's most cherished monuments. As we prepare for its reopening, we are reminded of the collective efforts and dedication that have revived this symbol of hope for France and beyond. The celebrations this weekend mark not only the completion of a monumental task but also the reaffirmation of cultural identity and shared values, which remain more critical than ever in these times of change.