Blogs
Paris Art Galleries
I had a lot of fun playing around with Google Maps. First, I made a very simple map indicating my apartment, some clubs I’ve been to, and a few other places I’m familiar with.
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Then, I used my boss’s list of her favorite Paris galleries and marked each on the map. Slowly, I began to see a pattern forming. When I completed the map, I realized that there are definitely distinct gallery neighborhoods that are very indicative of the type of gallery. A scene kind of equivalent to Chelsea can be found scattered around the Marais in a “V” type of shape. These are the most trendy and established galleries that mostly show contemporary stars along with some emerging talent. Then, there is a gallery neighborhood around the Champs-Elysees that all have permanent old masters collections. In the 6th arrondissment, there is a small cluster of other old master type of galleries, but these galleries are not really for the serious collector as the spaces are often selling antiques alongside the mediocre paintings. In the 13th arrondissment there is also a new cluster that has recently been sprouting up, these are the emerging galleries. These galleries clearly pay less money for their spaces and are working with virtually unknown artists but some of these galleries show a lot of promise and there is a certain buzz around this area.
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I'll have to look into The
I'll have to look into The Double Club. I'm definitely coming to London at some point to see Roni Horn at the Tate Modern. I'll give you a list of the best contemporary art galleries in London if you would like, my boss has amazing lists for just about every major city.
I think it's really
I think it's really interesting that you chose to mark so many contemporary art galleries, rather than the typical tourist destinations. I think you mentioned in class that you were going to Paris to explore the art scene, but I honestly didn't even think of looking up art galleries in London. I was too preoccupied with the famous museums! You've certainly inspired me to look more into London's contemporary art scene...in fact, my aunt recently told me about this art installation/restaurant called The Double Club that opened this past Friday in North London; it was described online as the "latest example of a burgeoning art world trend-the blurring of lines between art viewing, entertainment, and catering." Apparently this is a huge movement now in London, and I think it will be amazing to actually see these things in person when I'm there!