The recently concluded second edition of Paris+ par Art Basel has set a new milestone for the ever-evolving art market in Paris, cementing the French capital’s role as an indispensable hub in the global art ecosystem. Held at the Grand Palais Éphémère from October 20 to 22, 2023, the event featured an immersive mix of 154 leading galleries, including 61 based in France. With public programming spread across six iconic locations in Paris and a visitor number of 38,000, it was a grand celebration of art and culture.
A tapestry of artistic expression
The fair provided a rich and varied showcase, featuring not only 20th century masters such as Alexander Calder and Robert Rauschenberg, but also contemporary stars such as Tracey Emin and Mark Bradford. Emerging artists such as Jenna Bliss and Xie Lei also found a platform, illustrating the fair’s commitment to nurturing new talent. Additionally, galleries reported robust sales across several market segments, reinforcing the fair’s position as a commercial success.
A gathering of global influencers
The list of participants reads like a who’s who of the art world and includes collectors, art patrons and representatives of more than 170 globally renowned museums and foundations. Among those present were personalities such as French Culture Minister Rima Abdul Malak and First Lady Brigitte Macron, indicating the enormous importance of the event on both a national and international scale.
A convergence of perspectives
One of the most commendable aspects of the fair was its international character. Galleries and participants came from different geographical areas, from Europe and the Americas to Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Fifteen galleries made their debut at Paris+ par Art Basel, expanding the reach and influence of the event.
Exhibitors speak
Serena Cattaneo Adorno, Senior Director at Gagosian, highlighted the “real enthusiasm in Paris” and the busy atmosphere of the fair. Guillaume Sultana, founder of Sultana (Paris, Arles), praised the “excellent level of the fair”, underlining the strong representation from Europe and Asia.
A catalyst for cultural development
Clément Delépine, director of Paris+ par Art Basel, summarized the success of the event: “We were able to present art of the highest quality and the impact of the fair on the cultural life of the city is palpable.” He added that the next edition of the event would take place at its permanent venue – the iconic Grand Palais – from October 18 to 20, 2024.
The future beckons
With the successes of the last edition, Paris+ par Art Basel has proven itself as not only a marketplace for art, but also as a vibrant platform for discourse, exchange and inspiration. It promises to return even stronger in the next edition, with the aim of further embedding itself in the global art story.
Galeries Émergentes and public programme
Also present at the event was Galeries Émergentes, a section dedicated to emerging galleries. Supported by groupe Galeries Lafayette, a jury selected artist Mohamad Abdouni for a new work of art. In addition, the public program included exhibitions, outdoor installations and lectures, highlighting the fair’s commitment to accessibility and public engagement.
TL; DR
The second edition of Paris+ par Art Basel has successfully strengthened Paris’ position as a crucial hub in the global art market and attracted a rich array of artists, collectors and institutions. With robust sales and a diverse range of exhibitors, the event was both a commercial and critical success, promising even greater returns in 2024.