Paris Art Scene Flourishes in 2025

The Parisian art world in 2025 has been marked by a series of significant exhibitions that showcase both historical rediscoveries and contemporary artistic expressions. The Centre Pompidou closed its iconic Beaubourg building for renovation, while the Fondation Cartier relocated to a new site near the Louvre, reflecting a dynamic and evolving art ecosystem. Notable exhibitions include "Énormément Bizarre," featuring nearly 400 works from Jean Chatelus, and "Paris Noir," which highlights the contributions of 150 Black artists to modernism and anti-colonialism.

Hyperallergic

While the exhibitions have been largely celebrated, some critics argue that the focus on historical figures like Jacques-Louis David may overshadow contemporary artists. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the accessibility of these exhibitions, particularly in light of the Centre Pompidou's renovation.

Hyperallergic

Curators and institutions have emphasized the importance of these exhibitions in fostering dialogue about art's role in society. Sébastien Allard, curator of the Jacques-Louis David retrospective, stated that the exhibition confronts the persuasive power of images and their impact on political narratives.

Hyperallergic

• “Énormément Bizarre Centre Pompidou, March 26–June 30 Organized by the institution Installation view of Énormément Bizarre (photo courtesy Centre Pompidou) Walking into Énormément Bizarre was like stepping into the delirious mind of a brilliant hoarder.” — Hyperallergic Review

Hyperallergic

• “Paris Noir: Artistic Circulations and Anti-Colonial Resistance, 1950-2000 Centre Pompidou, March 19–June 30 Curated by Alicia Knock with Eva Barois De Caevel, Aurélien Bernard, Laure Chauvelot, and Marie Siguier Installation view of Paris Noir: Artistic Circulations and Anti-Colonial Resistance, 1950-2000 (© Hervé Véronèse; photo courtesy Centre Pompidou) After the Second World War, Paris became both a refuge and a fertile cultural hub for Black intellectuals and artists.” — Hyperallergic Review

Hyperallergic

• “the defender of an ideal of beauty in the service of a political project.” — Sébastien Allard on Jacques-Louis David

Hyperallergic

In summary, 2025 has proven to be a vibrant year for the Paris art scene, with a diverse array of exhibitions that reflect both historical significance and contemporary relevance.

Hyperallergic