Paris is a city where art flourishes, and the fall of 2023 offers an exciting array of exhibitions for art lovers to enjoy. From iconic figures in the history of art to contemporary masterpieces, these shows are a must-see for anyone visiting the City of Lights this season.
Centre Pompidou: “Corps à Corps, History of Photography” (September 6, 2023 – March 25, 2024)
One of the most anticipated photography exhibitions of the year is currently on display at the Centre Pompidou. “Corps à Corps, Histoire(s) de la Photographie” explores the human body in photography, showcasing over 500 images from the 20th and 21st centuries. These powerful photographs, drawn from the museum’s collection and Marin Karmitz’s personal collection, cover a range of genres including portraiture, self-portraiture, and nudes. With works by legends like Henri Cartier-Bresson, Andy Warhol, Man Ray, and Vivian Maier, this exhibition highlights the diversity of artistic approaches to the human figure across time and culture.
Petit Palais: “Treasures in Black & White: Dürer, Rembrandt, Goya, Toulouse-Lautrec…” (September 12, 2023 – January 14, 2024)
The Petit Palais is hosting a captivating exhibition focusing on the art of printmaking, an often underappreciated form of artistic expression. “Treasures in Black & White” features over 200 pieces from some of the most influential printmakers in history, including Dürer, Rembrandt, Goya, and Toulouse-Lautrec. Visitors can explore works from the 15th to 20th centuries, learning about the intricate techniques behind printmaking. Some of the rare pieces on display include Rembrandt’s La Pièce aux Cent Florins and test prints from Goya’s Tauromachie. This exhibition is a wonderful journey through art history, exploring movements from the Renaissance to modern art.
Musée du Luxembourg: “Gertrude Stein & Pablo Picasso – The Invention of Language” (September 2023 – January 28, 2024)
A fascinating new exhibition at the Musée du Luxembourg delves into the creative relationship between American writer Gertrude Stein and Spanish painter Pablo Picasso. “Gertrude Stein & Pablo Picasso – The Invention of Language” examines their friendship and the profound impact they had on each other’s work. Featuring 28 pieces from Picasso’s Cubist period, the exhibition also explores Stein’s legacy as an influential figure in both Europe and the United States. The show highlights not only their art but also the cultural scene of the time, including contributions from artists and intellectuals like Andy Warhol and Philip Glass.
Reflections by Emmanuel Barrois: A Monumental Installation at the Jardin du Palais Royal (September 15 – November 15, 2023)
For something a little different, head to the Jardin du Palais Royal to experience Reflections, a striking 15-meter-high installation by renowned glass artist Emmanuel Barrois. Created with the help of top architects and engineers, this monumental piece consists of 8 tons of glass and 6,000 meters of intertwined prisms. The installation plays with light and reflections, casting colorful rainbows across the surroundings. This outdoor exhibition invites visitors to reflect on humanity’s place in the world, offering a visually stunning and thought-provoking experience.
Musée d’Art Moderne: Nicolas de Staël Retrospective (September 15, 2023 – January 21, 2024)
The Musée d’Art Moderne is hosting a major retrospective of Franco-Russian artist Nicolas de Staël, showcasing over 200 works from the artist’s prolific career. With a vast collection of paintings, drawings, prints, and notebooks, this exhibition offers a deep dive into de Staël’s creative process. Known for his bold use of color and light, de Staël’s work spans many styles, from abstraction and cubism to expressionism and fauvism. The exhibition focuses on his favorite themes, such as the sea, landscapes, and portraits, demonstrating the artist’s continual evolution and mastery of various techniques.
Whether you’re a lover of photography, printmaking, sculpture, or modern art, Paris has something special to offer this fall. Be sure to visit these exceptional exhibitions while you have the chance!
