From October 18 to 20, 2024, the newly renovated Grand Palais will host the third edition of Paris+ by Art Basel. A triumphant return that places the French capital at the heart of the global art scene once again.
Five years of waiting. Five years during which the Grand Palais, an architectural gem from 1900, underwent a masterful rejuvenation. And it is precisely within this renovated setting that Paris+ by Art Basel showcases its 195 galleries from 44 countries. A strong symbol for a fair that aims to reclaim the throne of world capital of contemporary art.
The event leaves nothing to chance. Gagosian, Hauser & Wirth, David Zwirner, Perrotin: the heavyweights of the international market are present, alongside 42 new galleries bringing a fresh breath of air. This 2024 edition is structured around four distinct sectors. The main sector welcomes established galleries, while “Emergence” offers a showcase for young structures less than ten years old. “Premise” proposes daring curatorial presentations, and “Focus” explores cutting-edge contemporary themes. This thoughtful architecture allows navigation between safe bets and promising discoveries.
But Paris+ is not just a commercial showcase. The fair is part of a broader cultural dynamic: the Paris Art Week. More than 70 parallel events transform the capital into an artistic epicenter during these few days in October. Vernissages in the Marais galleries, special exhibitions in institutions, talks with major figures in the art world: the effervescence is total. This swarming strategy considerably amplifies the reach of the main event. It also attracts international collectors, many of whom take advantage of the VIP days on October 16 and 17 to discover the gems on display in preview.
However, the challenge remains immense. Paris+ must face direct competition from Frieze London, which takes place simultaneously, while reassuring an art market weakened by global economic uncertainties. Under the direction of Clément Delépine and with the support of Art Basel’s international network, the fair relies on the excellence of its setting, the incomparable attractiveness of Paris in October, and the richness of its cultural ecosystem. The bet is ambitious: to make the Grand Palais an essential stop for any self-respecting contemporary art enthusiast.
This third edition is therefore much more than a simple commercial meeting. It embodies a political and cultural will to reposition Paris against New York, London or Hong Kong. The Grand Palais regains its original vocation: celebrating innovation and creation. One essential question remains: will Paris+ succeed in transforming this fleeting brilliance into permanent light for the French art market?
Sources: The Art Newspaper, Artnet News, Le Quotidien de l'Art
