In the years following its launch in 1950, the BIC® Cristal® pen quickly became a favorite with established and ambitious artists. They appreciated its quality, its precision, ease of access and the ability to create a simple sketch or a masterpiece. In 1998, an exhibition was organized at the Val d’Aoste as a tribute to Baron Bich, a native of the region. On this occasion, artists created unprecedented artworks in connection with the brand’s products. It was the first step in the desire for a BIC collection, at the recommendation of Bruno Bich. Today, we are delighted to share it with you at the CENTQUATRE-PARIS. With more than 80 international artists and 150 artworks, the simple everyday object (pen, razor, lighter) becomes a means of creation. The artists transform, transpose, transfigure. With this stroll through plural and unsuspected worlds, the collection is unveiled as eclectic and profuse. The artist diverts the object from its initial function, reinvents it and encourages us to break down the barriers between drawing and painting, writing and images, design and art. From Bruno Bich, CEO of the BIC Group: “This collection shows how much the BIC® products may seduce artists worldwide, as much as a means of creation than as a source of inspiration. We are delighted to be able to share these artworks with the public for the first time.”