Take a break in Paris to discover contemporary art

While the Louvre and Orsay are the two most visited museums in Paris, the capital is also renowned for presenting events dedicated to modern art and contemporary creations. If you’re familiar with the Palais de Tokyo or the Maison Rouge, you will definitely be interested in this autumn’s artistic agenda. Enjoy a stay at the Hotel Sophie Germain, ideally located close to the Place Denfert-Rochereau in the 14th arrondissement, and experience three exceptional events in the City of Light.

The Pop Art years at the Musée Maillol

The Maillol Museum, located in the seventh arrondissement, houses the world's largest collection of works by a pioneer of modern sculpture, Aristide Maillol, but also hosts sumptuous temporary exhibitions. From September 22nd, 2017, to January 21st, 2018, the Pop Art movement is in the spotlight. The exhibition focusses on the way Pop Art rose to prominence in mid-20th century America, embracing mass culture and its modes of expression. More than sixty works, on loan from New York’s legendary Whitney Museum of Art, are presented for the first time in France. From screen prints by Andy Warhol to the giant sculptures of Claes Oldenburg and the melancholy mannequins of George Segal, this fascinating exhibition will plunge you into an unparalleled artistic whirlwind.

The FIAC, a meeting place for connoisseurs, collectors and the curious

Every year since 1974, this international art fair dedicated to contemporary creation has been one of the highlights of the Parisian autumn. From October 19th to 22nd, hundreds of galleries will set up their booths at the Grand Palais to showcase the works of emerging artists as well as the big names in the art world. Here you can discover the work of a young unknown sculptor, marvel at a Picasso lithograph or be awed by a daring art installation. The hub of FIAC is the Grand Palais, but the fair will also extend to other Parisian venues such as the Jardin des Tuileries, the Place Vendôme and the Musée Delacroix.

Nuit Blanche, an essential art festival since 2002

On October 7th, 2017, you can see Paris in a new light thanks to contemporary art works scattered throughout the city. There’s no need to go to a museum or a gallery to admire sculptures or installations, as many will be on display in various urban spaces for the entire night. An invitation to stroll and explore, the Nuit Blanche (White Night) 2017 nocturnal art festival includes two main routes. The first is organised around the Halles and the banks of the Seine, and the second is in the general vicinity of the 104 art space, in the nineteenth arrondissement. In addition to enjoying these in-situ works, you can also visit a selection of museums or monuments, open beyond their usual hours. 

Hôtel Sophie Germain *** Paris Rive Gauche