The 2023 edition of Paris+ by Art Basel, held from October 20 to 22, was an undeniable triumph. Launched in 2022 as a successor to the renowned FIAC, this modern art fair has quickly captured the attention of art enthusiasts worldwide. Its carefully curated selection of contemporary works continues to make Paris a must-visit destination for art lovers.
Record-Breaking Attendance and Diverse Exhibitions
Held at the Palais Éphémère in Paris, the fair attracted nearly 160 galleries from 33 different countries. This year, the event included a mix of free exhibitions and engaging art installations, which contributed significantly to its popularity and success. Visitors had the chance to experience a wide variety of contemporary art, spanning mediums such as painting, sculpture, photography, and digital art.
Paris+ by Art Basel was divided into three main sections: Main Galleries, Emerging Galleries, and Outside Galleries. Each area displayed an exceptional array of works that showcased the creativity and talent of contemporary artists.
Standout Works and Artists
The event highlighted a diverse range of masterpieces from both established and emerging artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. While it’s impossible to mention all of the outstanding works, here are a few that stood out:
- Jean Hélion’s “Applicat-Prazan,” a stunning piece by the French painter.
- Outsider artists Paulina Peavy and Karla Knight, whose works captured attention with their unique perspectives.
- Middle Eastern and North African artists, curated by the Selma Feriani Gallery, whose pieces brought cultural diversity to the forefront.
- Denilson Baniwa, an indigenous Brazilian artist, and Afro-Brazilian painter Arjan Martins, who showcased their powerful visual narratives.
Additionally, thought-provoking panel discussions, organized in partnership with the Centre Pompidou, added another layer of intellectual engagement to the event.
A Citywide Celebration of Art
Beyond the main fair, Paris+ by Art Basel extended its influence throughout the city with various events and exhibitions. These off-site displays helped make the event even more dynamic and accessible to a wider audience.
Jardin des Tuileries: An Open-Air Art Experience
One of the most exciting features was La Cinquième Saison, an outdoor exhibition in the Jardin des Tuileries, where nearly 20 international artists showcased their work. The garden provided a stunning setting for art lovers to enjoy pieces from some of the world’s most celebrated contemporary artists.
Place Vendôme: A Monumental Installation
At Place Vendôme, renowned artist Urs Fischer unveiled his monumental installation, “Wave.” Made from clay and covered in reflective material, the piece played with light and texture, leaving visitors in awe of Fischer’s technical skill and artistic vision.
Institut de France: Textile Art in Public Spaces
Across from the Pont des Arts, the Institut de France hosted a vibrant installation by American artist Sheila Hicks. Known for her innovative work with textiles, Hicks created a colorful, ever-changing display that shifted with the light throughout the day, adding an element of dynamic beauty to the public space.
Chapelle des Petits-Augustins: A Mystical Journey
Inside the Chapelle des Petits-Augustins, artist Jessica Warboys presented a series of floating paintings that utilized natural materials such as beeswax, sand, and minerals. These ethereal works, combined with an audiovisual installation, explored the connection between humanity and nature, offering a mesmerizing experience for visitors.
Palais d’Iéna: A Stunning Collaborative Installation
Finally, one of the most breathtaking exhibits of the fair was a collaborative installation by French artist Daniel Buren and Italian artist Michelangelo Pistoletto at the Palais d’Iéna. Their work played with light, perspective, and symmetry, beautifully highlighting the architecture of the venue. This installation was a true testament to the power of collaboration in contemporary art.
Paris+ by Art Basel 2023 has once again proven its place at the forefront of the global contemporary art scene, combining groundbreaking art with an engaging cultural experience across the city of Paris.
