Artistic Gems: Unveiling Hidden Treasures in Paris during the Olympics
Paris is known for its rich history, iconic landmarks, vibrant art scene, and of course for being the home base for POPOUT our niche creative community. Paris is set to host the 2024 Summer Olympics with the opening ceremony taking place on July 26, 2024. While visitors flock to the city to witness world-class athletic competitions, we will give you our POPOUT Approved list of exhibitions, performances, and installations to visit.
image credit: Unsplash
First stop, YALLA Store Paris! With locations in both the 18th and 10th arrondissements, this second-hand store offers a unique blend of luxury items and hosts creative events. In their 18th arrondissement store, we've curated a special space featuring paintings by U.S. native artist Donatella Jackson, available for purchase until the end of August. Enjoy shopping not only for art but also for fashionable clothing. The historic 18th arrondissement, also known as Montmartre, has long been a haven for artists. Visitors can explore independent galleries, artisan shops, and street artists who contribute to the district's creative energy.
Address: 76, rue Marcadet, 75018 Paris & 71, rue du Faubourg Saint Martin, 75010 Paris
Hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 11h – 19h
image credit: Khoi tuck
Tired from a long day in the beautiful city of light? Take a break and visit SAFE Urban Concept. Nestled in the heart of the Marais, this contemporary art gallery and store not only offers a haven for art enthusiasts but also boasts some of the finest coffee in Paris. Managed by two charismatic owners, SAFE Urban Concept is a multifaceted space that showcases a diverse array of artists, brands, nail technicians, and tattoo artists. While you’re in the area, the Marais has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous art galleries, museums, and cultural institutions. Places like the Picasso Museum and the Centre Pompidou's outpost, Beaubourg, draw art enthusiasts from around the world.
Address: 11 Rue Commines, 75003 Paris, France
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 10h-20h, Sunday 13h-17h, Monday Closed
image credit: SAFE Urban Concept
If you are into street art visiting 20th arrondissement is a must! Belleville 75020, home of Chinatown, Parc de Belleville and Buttes Chaumont provides iconic scenery soon as you step foot off of the metro. For a truly immersive art experience, visitors can walk around this neighborhood and see iconic street art from graffiti tags to stunning murals. In the heart of this lovely neighborhood is 389 La Boutique. This niche art space showcases artists from the neighborhood and the owner Alexis is someone to know in the community.
Address: 389 Rue des Pyrénées, 75020 Paris, France
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday: 12h-20h, Closed Sunday & Monday
image credit: La Boutique 389 instagram
Musee d'Orsay, located in the heart of Paris, is a treasure trove of impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces. Housed in a stunning Beaux-Arts railway station, the museum boasts an impressive collection of works by artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, and Degas. One of the highlights of visiting Musee d'Orsay is the chance to see iconic works such as Van Gogh's "Starry Night Over the Rhone" and Monet's "Water Lilies" up close and personal. In addition to its permanent collection, Musee d'Orsay regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase various aspects of 19th and early 20th-century art.
Address Esplanade Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, 75007 Paris, France
Hours: Saturday-Sunday 9:30 AM–18H, Tuesday-Friday 9:30 AM–18H , Closed Monday *Will be closed during the opening Ceremony taking place July 25-26.
image credit: Unsplash
The 193 Gallery (193, like the number of countries in the world) is a contemporary art gallery dedicated to world arts. Established by Cesar Levy in 2018, the 193 Gallery aims to exhibit a variety of contemporary art from global artists. The gallery's curation process involves selecting artists who align with specific themes, ultimately aiming to craft immersive experiences that highlight the vibrant colors and diverse cultures of various nations. In addition to its Paris location, the gallery also operates in Venice, with future plans to expand to Mexico City. This is the perfect space to be introduced to new artists and a beautiful atmosphere.
Address/Hours: 24 rue Béranger will be open all summer, Tuesday through Saturday, from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM. Please note, location at 21 rue Béranger will close starting July 26.
image credit: 193 Gallery
Visiting the Louvre is a must! For those interested in historical art, the Louvre Museum, home to thousands of works of art spanning centuries, is a must-visit destination. During the Olympics, the museum will host special exhibitions and events that highlight the cultural heritage of Paris and its influence on the global art world. Visitors can marvel at iconic masterpieces such as the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace, while also discovering lesser-known gems hidden within the museum's vast collection.
Address: 75001 Paris, France
Hours: Monday-Sunday 9 H –21H, Tuesday Closed
image credit: Unsplash
59 Rivoli is a unique artist squat and cultural center located in Hotel De Ville. This former artist collective is now a vibrant hub of creativity, with over thirty resident artists working and exhibiting their artwork in the space. Visitors can explore the colorful and eclectic studios, chat with the artists, and even purchase one-of-a-kind pieces directly from the creators themselves. The building itself is a work of art, with its quirky facade and winding staircase leading up to the upper levels. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, with live music performances, workshops, and other events happening regularly. It's a truly immersive and interactive way to experience the vibrant arts scene of Paris.
Address: 59 Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France
Hours: Closed Monday, Tuesday-Sunday 13H-20H
image credit: Unsplash
FINAL TIPS
Paris offers a wealth of artistic events and experiences for Olympic visitors to enjoy. It is important to remember that metro tickets have increased but it’s a walking city - get your steps in! Also, routes may be altered due to the olympic games and certain areas you will need a QR code to enter, so ensure to plan that in your day. The city's parks and public spaces also serve as venues for temporary art installations and performances, adding a touch of creativity and whimsy to the Olympic experience. Whether you're a seasoned art aficionado or just looking to explore something new, Paris has something for everyone to enjoy during the 2024 Summer Olympics.
Written By Aalyiah Heath
