L e C a r n a v a l d e s A n i m a u x
The Carnival of the Animals
A series of suites composed by the French composer Camille Saint-Saëns, known for vividly depicting various distinctive animals through different instruments. It was first performed privately in 1886 with only a few close friends in attendance, and it was not until after Saint-Saëns' death in 1921 that the work was made public.In 2023, I created illustrations for each movement of *The Carnival of the Animals*. During the creative process, I felt a great sense of freedom. Since the movements are short, it is ideal for enjoying with children, allowing them to express their creativity and emotions. While creating, I tried to translate the music into visual imagery, transforming the instruments into representations of animals.On the surface, it is *The Carnival of the Animals*, but in reality, it revolves around a restaurant kitchen, representing a carnival in my own mind. I am grateful to Saint-Saëns for this gift to the world, and I hope that through this series , you can experience a new fusion of sound and sight.
Introduction and Royal March of the Lion
As the string ensemble begins, it feels as though the curtain is being raised on a fantastical journey. The duet of two pianos then follows, and as the main theme emerges, it is reminiscent of two attendants standing solemnly at the door, welcoming important guests. The series of piano arpeggios sounds like the stone lions offering their greetings. As the music progresses, the grand doors slowly open, as if to say, "Please come in! There are wonderful stories waiting for you inside!"
The Rooster and the Hen
Perhaps it's the hurried string instruments that make me feel like I'm in a steaming hot kitchen, where the chicken chefs are busy preparing for the upcoming feast. Their wings flap in rhythm with the high-pressure yet steady atmosphere. Although the pace is fast, they work together in perfect harmony, with each role performing its duties flawlessly. Some are supervising, some managing, others seasoning, and some adding the final touches.
Wild Donkeys
The uniform arpeggios at the beginning remind me of donkeys hurrying to decorate the dishes. They are surrounded by fluttering butterflies, whose wing flapping seems to urge the donkeys to finish their work quickly. It also resembles the sound of the donkeys' hooves as they busily work. The final ending feels like they're saying, "Ta-da! We finished on time!
The Tortoise
An elegant old tortoise chef is unhurriedly carrying herbs that add a magical touch to delicious dishes, gracefully making his way to the restaurant where he works. He walks slowly, ever so slowly; the evening glow filters through the gaps between the leaves, sprinkling light upon the tortoise. In the gentle breeze beside him, you can smell the scent of grassy fields, as it blows over the meadows and brushes against the old tortoise's cheeks.
Elephants
Three elephants in spinning teacups are enjoying their favorite bath time. Interestingly, the bathtubs rotate along with the waltz, and the air is filled not only with their laughter but also with the fragrance of herbal tea. Occasionally, hot tea spills out as they spin, and their eyes squint into lines as they laugh. This is surely a very joyful gathering.
Kangaroos
The kangaroos in charge of making flower-shaped cookies are busy working on the rolled-out dough. Some are cutting the dough with molds, some are placing little flowers on top, and others are picking up the cookies, ready to place them on the baking tray. With each jump, they leave two cute footprints on the dough, much like grace notes in a musical score—lively and fitting.
Aquarium
The slow sound of flowing water, the tiny bubbles from creatures' breathing, the sound of fish swaying their bodies and fins, the soft friction of crabs' legs against the ground as they move, and jellyfish drifting freely and peacefully—all of this creates an environment that is both quiet and full of life. It's like an aquarium after hours, when the doors are closed late at night, or like a drink prepared for a moment of solitude after the lights go out.
Long-Eared Animals
The battle grows more intense, with the two fencers alternating between attack and defense. The nearby fruits are sliced into pieces from the impact of their movements. They must be highly skilled fencers, with swift and clean sword techniques, leaving no room for hesitation.
The Bu'yi Birds in the Forest
Do you hear that sound? They're hiding in the unlit prep area, occasionally letting out a sound from the dark room. Even though it's late at night, they haven't fallen asleep yet. The vegetables placed in the corner of the kitchen are their forest, and it's as if they're playing hide and seek, feeling both close and distant at the same time.
The Large Birdcage
A group of kingfishers is playfully frolicking, flapping their wings lightly. The air is filled with the aroma of pumpkin soup, and the glass containers emit a crisp sound. Be careful not to disturb them—just let them fully enjoy this carefree and delightful moment.
The Pianist
Before becoming a pianist, one must go through countless hours of repetitive practice, repeating mechanical yet crucial finger exercises. Then, they wait for their technique to mature, practicing how to convey emotion through their fingertips. This daily repetition reminds me of a Provençal vegetable casserole, where the vegetables are layered over and over, placed in the oven, and then you wait for that “ding” from the oven. And then, voilà!
Fossils
When the lamb chops ordered by the guest are served, all the items on the dining table become essential props for a circus performance. The sounds of crystal glasses, bones, knives, and plates create a crisp symphony, as if it's a popular act in the circus!
The Swan
With the cello's mellow tones and the dulcimer's sound, two swans gracefully approach each other, full of affection. In the romantic, mist-filled atmosphere, they are happy to have the chance to renew their bond. As the main melody returns in the final piano segment, it’s as if magical, sparkling stars of affection have been conjured and scattered around them. This dessert, too, marks the perfect end to tonight’s meal.
Finale
After the restaurant closes, the real celebration begins. All the animals gather here, ready to start tonight's bubble party. Listen carefully—who is gradually appearing in the main melody?