The recently concluded second edition of Paris+ par Art Basel has set a new milestone for the ever-evolving art market in Paris, solidifying the French capital’s role as an indispensable hub in the global art ecosystem. Hosted from October 20 to 22, 2023, at the Grand Palais Éphémère, the event featured a compelling blend of 154 preeminent galleries, including 61 based in France. With its public programming spanning across six iconic locations in Paris and a visitor count of 38,000, it was a grand celebration of art and culture.
A Tapestry of Artistic Expression
The fair offered a rich and diverse showcase, featuring not only 20th-century masters like Alexander Calder and Robert Rauschenberg but also contemporary stars such as Tracey Emin and Mark Bradford. Emerging artists like Jenna Bliss and Xie Lei also found a platform, illustrating the fair’s commitment to nurturing new talent. Furthermore, galleries reported robust sales across various market segments, cementing the fair’s position as a commercial success.
A Gathering of Global Influencers
The attendee list read like a who’s who of the art world, encompassing collectors, art patrons, and representatives from over 170 globally renowned museums and foundations. Among those in attendance were personalities like French Minister of Culture Rima Abdul Malak and First Lady Brigitte Macron, signaling the event’s immense importance on both a national and international scale.
A Convergence of Perspectives
One of the fair’s most commendable aspects was its international flavor. Galleries and participants hailed from diverse geographies, from Europe and the Americas to Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. Fifteen galleries made their debut appearance at Paris+ par Art Basel, amplifying the event’s reach and influence.
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,” underscoring the strong representation from Europe and Asia.
A Catalyst for Cultural Development
Clément Delépine, Director of Paris+ par Art Basel, summed up the event’s success: “We were able to present art of the highest quality, and the fair’s impact on the city’s cultural life is palpable.” He added that the event’s next iteration would take place in its permanent venue—the iconic Grand Palais—from October 18 to 20, 2024.
The Future Beckons
With the successes of its latest edition, Paris+ par Art Basel has proven itself as not just a marketplace for art but also as a vibrant platform for discourse, exchange, and inspiration. It promises to return even stronger in its next edition, aiming to further entrench itself in the global art narrative.
Galeries Émergentes and Public Program
The event also featured Galeries Émergentes, a section dedicated to emerging galleries. Supported by groupe Galeries Lafayette, the initiative saw a jury selecting artist Mohamad Abdouni for a new artwork. Additionally, the public program included exhibitions, outdoor installations, and talks, highlighting the fair’s commitment to accessibility and public engagement.
TL;DR
The second edition of Paris+ par Art Basel successfully cemented Paris’s standing as a critical hub in the global art market, drawing a rich tapestry of artists, collectors, and institutions. With robust sales and a diverse array of exhibitors, the event was both a commercial and critical success, promising an even grander return in 2024.
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