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In a remarkable fusion of art and innovation, a Canadian engineer’s stuffed teddy bear has found its place in the prestigious Louvre Museum in Paris. Maggy-Nadyne Lamarche, the creative mind behind Béké-Bobo, has turned her therapeutic stuffed animal into a global sensation, captivating the hearts of children and parents alike.
The inspiration behind Béké-Bobo
Over two decades ago, Lamarche was inspired to create a comforting companion for her sick baby. Struggling to soothe her constantly agitated child, she embarked on a journey of research to find natural remedies.
This led her to discover a unique blend of Canadian cereals that, when warmed, could alleviate common ailments like stomach aches and teething pain. “It takes about 30 seconds, and the baby will be more calm,” she explains, highlighting the bear’s therapeutic qualities.
A patented secret
What sets Béké-Bobo apart from ordinary stuffed animals is its patented stuffing, which Lamarche describes as a closely guarded secret. While she remains tight-lipped about the exact ingredients, she reveals that the bear produces humidity and soothing aromas that help calm young children.
This innovative approach has led to the sale of hundreds of thousands of bears worldwide, making it a beloved item for families seeking comfort for their little ones.
From local to global: The journey to the Louvre
Initially, Lamarche sold her creations to friends, but as word spread about the bear’s calming effects, her small business flourished.
The turning point came when the Louvre Museum reached out to her last year, inviting her to showcase Béké-Bobo in their upcoming teddy bear exhibition. “I thought it was a joke,” she recalls, but upon seeing her bear on display, she felt a wave of pride wash over her.
“It’s the highlight of my career to see my products become an art object,” she shared with excitement.
The My Teddy Bear exhibit
The My Teddy Bear exhibit, which began on December 4, 2024, at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in the Palais du Louvre, explores the rich history of the teddy bear. The exhibition highlights how this beloved toy has earned its place in the hearts of children, overshadowing traditional toys like dolls and wheeled animals. Lamarche’s Béké-Bobo is featured prominently, showcasing the evolution of the teddy bear from a simple toy to a cherished companion.
As the exhibit runs until June 29, 2025, visitors to the Louvre will have the opportunity to delve into the enchanting world of teddy bears and witness the unique story of Béké-Bobo, a testament to the power of creativity and innovation in the realm of childhood comfort.
