I am really hoping that this post is not too optimistic. I say this because it was about this time last year that COVID cases in France began to spike again, ultimately leading to the second lockdown. The fall season of exhibitions had only just opened when museums across the country were forced to close their doors. Many of those exhibitions never re-opened when the restrictions were lifted seven months later. And now, here we are again, one year later. A new season of exhibitions has just begun, but whether or not they stay open remains to be seen. However, I am nothing if not an eternal optimist, so I have hope that another lockdown is not in our future. Therefore, without further ado, I present my top 5 exhibitions to (hopefully!) experience this fall.
Botticelli – Artist and Designer
This exhibition at the Musée Jacquemart-André is at the top of my list. Botticelli is one of the great artists of the Italian Renaissance, and over 40 of his works have been gathered from museums all over the world to trace his life, work, and influence on his contemporaries. As an added bonus, the Musée Jacquemart-André itself is a stunningly beautiful museum, and definitely worth a visit on its own. This exhibition is definitely the one not to miss.
Botticelli – Artist and Designer is running until January 24th, 2022.
Aux Frontières de l’Humain
If you’re in the mood for some deep philosophical introspection, the Musée de l’Homme has got you covered. This exhibition is all about exploring what it means to be human, and looking at the possible future of humanity. Heavy stuff, for sure. But it also promises to be incredibly fascinating. The Musée de l’Homme is also located at Trocadero, meaning you can pair your philosophical journey with one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower in the city.
Aux Frontières de l’Humain runs October 13th, 2021 – May 30th, 2022.
Vivian Maier
Vivian Maier was an American street photographer who spent decades capturing life in Chicago, New York City, and LA. She took over 150,000 photographs during her lifetime, but incredibly, they were never shared publicly. It wasn’t until after her death that her work was discovered by collectors, leading to widespread critical acclaim and international recognition. This exhibition at the Musée du Luxembourg will feature her photographs, prints, super 8 films, and audio recordings, many of which are being shown in public for the first time.
Vivian Maier is running until January 16th, 2022.
Ultimate Combat. Asian Martial Arts
Asian martial arts have a long and storied history that spans centuries, countries, genres, artistic mediums, mythologies, and religions. Meaning there is a lot to learn from this exhibition at the Musée du Quai Branley – Jacques Chirac. Over 300 pieces have been brought together for this exhibition, both ancient and contemporary, from multiple countries across the continent. It promises to be a fascinating look into this well known but often misunderstood style of combat.
Ultimate Combat. Asian Martial Arts is running until January 16th, 2022.
Picasso – Rodin
Picasso and Rodin are both legendary artists. So much so, that they both have their own museums in Paris – the Musée Rodin and the Musée National Picasso-Paris. And now, these two museums have joined forces to present a landmark exhibition on these two artists and their continuing influence on art today. This exhibition spans two museums and over 500 works, and it is absolutely not to be missed.
Picasso – Rodin is running until January 2nd, 2022.
Laura Moore is a professional storyteller who loves history and the many stories that make Paris one of the most fascinating cities in the world. Join one of her signature tours to learn the story of a city.
