Paris in an Art Frenzy: Art Basel and New Accents in the Seine Metropolis

Art enthusiasts were captivated on Wednesday by the premiere of Art Basel Paris at the venerable Grand Palais. The artful symbiosis of historical and contemporary creations found a grand stage that remarkably showcased its array of high-quality works. Comparisons with London’s Frieze Fairs were inevitable, yet the Grand Palais, despite its glass ceiling creating a damp climate, offered an unparalleled charm. Jo Stella-Sawicka of the Goodman Gallery praised the cities as 'siblings that complement each other.' Sales of Alfredo Jaar, William Kentridge, and Ghada Amer stood out. Alongside 20th-century classics like Picasso, Gerhard Richter, and Leonor Fini, the French fair's Emergence section presented exciting emerging artists. Names like Lou Fauroux, Lungiswa Gqunta, and Bruno Zhu brought a breath of fresh air, although the sales dynamic remained mixed. While White Cube took the lead by selling Julie Mehretu's 'Insile' on opening day, balcony galleries complained about low visibility. New this year is 'The Salon,' an initiative by the US New Art Dealers Alliance. Featuring 37 commercial and 15 non-profit galleries, primarily from New York, it enriches Paris until October 20. Heather Hubbs of Nada highlights the city’s appeal. A highlight is Pope.L’s work 'You Are What You Eat,' presented by 52 Walker and Mitchell-Innes & Nash. Paris Internationale, running concurrently, sympathizes with the city's increased allure. New participants like The Breeder from Athens join the art scene. Sotheby’s is also making a mark: In a new light-filled building in the capital, formerly home to the Galerie Bernheim-Jeune, it presents a modernized auction and gallery landscape. The opening launches a surrealism auction promising outstanding returns. Komunuma, the art district north of Paris, experiences growth with Dubai’s Nika Project Space. Founder Veronika Berezina appreciates the location’s collective creativity. The opening of the new exhibition spaces underscores the district’s potential, celebrated fittingly with DJs at the five-year anniversary event.