Paris is undoubtedly at the heart of the global art trade as Art Basel Paris returns to the city, ensconced in the newly renovated Grand Palais. Expectations have been riding high after a better-than-expected Frieze in London. With 195 galleries from 42 countries, including 53 newcomers, this year’s edition promises to be bigger and more exciting than ever before. Running from 18–20 October 2024, the event offers a blend of modern and contemporary art from established international names to rising stars.
The Venue: Grand Palais
Art Basel Paris is taking over the Grand Palais, an iconic Parisian landmark that will house three major exhibition sectors: Galeries, Emergence, and the new Premise sector. The sprawling floor plan will guide you through many artworks—paintings, sculptures, installations, and digital media—while directing you to information desks, food outlets, and the Art Basel Shop. Expect Maison Miam, a fresh culinary partner this year, to satisfy your cravings during the fair.
Art Basel Paris 2024: Must-See Highlights
Beyond the Grand Palais, the cultural buzz extends throughout the city. The public programme, produced in collaboration with Miu Miu and the City of Paris, spans nine venues across town. Some key highlights include: Ghader Amer’s Paravent Girls series. Niki de Saint Phalle at the Parvis de l’Institut de France, Takis at the Cour De L’hôtel De La Marine, Jessie Darling at the Petit Palais, The Sculpture Garden at the Domaine National de Palais-Royal, And don’t miss Carsten Höller’s whimsical Double Trip Mushroom installation at Place Vendôme.
Satellite Fairs and Independent Shows
Art Basel Paris is just the tip of the iceberg. The city will be again hosting satellite fairs and independent exhibitions: The Salon by NADA and The Community make their debut in Paris, with a spotlight on emerging and underrepresented artists. AKAA (Also Known As Africa) focuses on contemporary art from the African continent and its connection with the Caribbean. Opera Gallery explores Figuration in the 1980s, while Marianne Boesky stages a pop-up exhibition on Rue de Penthièvre featuring works by contemporary heavyweights like Pier Paolo Calzolari and The Haas Brothers. La Maison OFFSCREEN at Eldorado Hotel presents screenings, including films by Chantal Ackerman. At Hauser & Wirth, check out Rashid Johnson’s latest works. Citywide Exhibitions in Paris’ Renowned Institutions
Paris’s Art Basel Paris 2024 Photo Nico Kos Earle © Artlyst
World-class museums also participate in the artistic celebration.
Look out for:
Barbara Chase-Riboud across eight venues, including Musée d’Orsay and Musée du Louvre. A deep dive into the mythology of the undead with Zombies. Death Is Not the End? at Musée Quai Branly. Elmgreen & Dragset curating an intervention at Musée d’Orsay. The legacy of Arte Povera at Bourse de Commerce. Jackson Pollock takes centre stage at Musée Picasso. Getting the Most Out of Your Visit
Art Basel Paris 2024 Photo Nico Kos Earle © Artlyst
Download the Art Basel floor plan from their website to fully navigate the fair. Tickets are also on sale now; information on guided tours, family-friendly options, and safety guidelines is also available.
Art Basel Paris is not just about the artworks on display—it’s about immersing yourself in the city’s vibrant cultural scene, discovering new artists, and witnessing how Paris continues to shape the contemporary art landscape. Whether exploring the leading fair at the Grand Palais or wandering through the many off-site exhibitions across the city, this October is the perfect time to experience the best of art in Paris.
Top Photo: Nico Kos Earle
Running from 18–20 October 2024