What can we expect from the return of Art Basel Paris in 2024? A lot of things, actually. Like many events, this will celebrate its next edition, from October 18 to 20, in the heart of the Grand Palais, which closed its doors in 2021 to be transformed. But the fair has the habit of extending well beyond the museum grounds, to vibrate to the rhythm of Parisian cultural life, for a weekend. Understand instead: each edition, its share of spectacular works installed in certain emblematic places of the capital, to see for free. Art objects elevated to the status of true urban monuments, selected with rare rigor, highlighting the biggest names in contemporary art. Vogue has identified five essential works to discover as a priority.
The 5 works of art to see for free during Art Basel Paris 2024
The Snake Tree by Niki de Saint Phalle (1988) on the square in front of the Institut de France
Have you never heard of the Institut de France? In reality, yes, certainly. The emblematic company maintains several academies within it, including the famous Académie française, (re)discovered in a new light during the opening ceremony of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. But yes, remember: the singer Aya Nakamura passed through its doors to perform a medley from his repertoire (coupled with that of Charles Aznavour) on the Pont des Arts. A moment that became cult almost instantly.
This year, for the second time, the square in front of the Institut de France will host a work with Art Basel. In 2023, passers-by could discover the colorful column of the American artist based in Paris Sheila Hicksrenowned for her formidable sculptures which exude her love for the art of weaving. In October, another female artist will be in the spotlight. Another American expatriate in Paris: Niki de Saint Phallewhose life will be the subject of a biopic broadcast in cinemas from October 9, 2024, with Charlotte Le Bon in the role of the artist. If we know the brilliant sculptor and visual artist for her Nanas or her colorful canvases, we will be able to discover her Tree-Snakes (1988), presented by the Galerie Mitterrand. A work initially thought of as a fountain, made of a dozen intertwined snakes and entirely covered with mirrors and glass mosaics. To reflect the last rays of sunlight in the Seine?
