Paris is the ideal city for art and culture lovers. The capital and its surrounding towns are home to numerous museums, cultural institutions, art foundations, galleries, artists' studios... And these places regularly organize exhibitions and events to offer us new works to see. Sure, thanks to these museums and institutions, we've already got a full program.
But you want more, and you're right. You want the innovative, the unexpected. You also want to decorate your house or apartment. So you've come to the right place.
If there's one thing we can reproach museums for, it's that they rarely let us take home the painting or sculpture we've fallen in love with. Art fairs and festivals, on the other hand, are much more open about this.
As you can see, this guide lists the best art fairs and other art festivals in Paris and the Ile-de-France region. In the selection below, you'll find the major events of the year you won't want to miss, as well as more confidential fairs that are well worth a visit.
But what exactly do you do at an art fair? These events are organized as much for professionals in the art world as for amateurs like us. It's an opportunity to discover young talent, artists and galleries from around the world, and unusual and different practices.
These art fairs and cultural festivals often feature exhibitions, shows or events that allow us to admire new artists. What's more, these events are also (often, but not always) marketplaces: you can buy the works you like. And you don't necessarily need to go into debt to do so: there are several art fairs that are very accessible to the general public!
Drawing, contemporary art, urban art, photography, crafts, art from elsewhere... There's something for everyone, all year round. This time, for sure, you won't be able to say you're bored in Paris! Without further ado, here are the shows and festivals not to be missed this year.
It's sometimes necessary to reserve your admission ticket in advance: if a show catches your eye, get your tickets right away. And above all, make the most of it.
