Grand Palais 2009/2010 season
Since the reopening of the building to the public in 2005 and the setting up of the new management body, the EPGPCE, in 2007, the Grand Palais has been making the headlines, innovating, inventing new formats, and renewing its tradition of staging major popular events, drawing a public that is both large and very wide-ranging. The Grand Palais is not a museum. It is a magnificent setting for creativity in every shape and form, drawing its appeal and strength from its ability to stage real events. The 2009/2010 season will feature a broad range of themes, changes of pace, scenographies and moods. The common denominators are invention, excellence and the desire to share.
Highlights of the 2009/2010 season
Youth
The extraordinary volume of the Grand Palais and its outstanding location in downtown Paris make it an ideal venue for events that are an instant hit with young people. This year's programme includes three events that specifically target this public: on September 1 basketball comes to the Grand Palais with the "More than a camp" show, alias the LeBron James world tour, featuring top NBA stars; on September 25, the first ever electro night with live concerts in partnership with mobile phone operator SFR, inviting the public to get down to twelve hours of non-stop music; and on November 21 and 22 skateboarding with the Quicksilver Tony Hawk Show, an event featuring the very best exponents of this popular form of urban culture, and starring the most famous skateboarder in history working out on Europe's biggest ramp!
Outstanding event
Excellence is one of the key values at the Grand Palais. The building's architecture and prestige draw events that leave a mark in the heart of those who attend and participate. This is why, in 2010, the Grand Palais is revisiting a tradition that goes back a hundred years: the equestrian event. From 1905 to 1957, the Grand Palais was regularly transformed into a show jumping arena where riders could put their horses through their paces. With the horse show scheduled on April 3 and 4 2010, we invite you to a truly outstanding event. The Grand Palais also invites you to discover "It's our Earth!" a major exhibition to be held in May-June 2010 devoted to sustainable development viewed from all angles: social, economic and environmental.
Art
Since its inauguration in 1900, the Grand Palais has always hosted major art events, regularly staging exhibitions and salons. More than a century later, the Grand Palais is still a leading showcase for creativity, heritage and the art market and brings you five milestone events in the upcoming season: the Salon du collectionneur, September 11-20; FIAC, October 22-25; Art en capital, November 3-9; Monumenta / Christian Boltanski, January 13-February 21; Art Paris, March 18-22.
2010 will open with the 3rd edition of Monumenta, offering a sensorial experience of outstanding intensity. A visual work that also uses sound, Personnes is an original installation through which Christian Boltanski continues to investigate the limits of humanity and the essential dimension that is memory.
Another landmark in the season is the International Antiquarian Book Fair and the International Fine Print Fair, from April 16-18, an opportunity to discover remarkable treasures: sets of rare books, original manuscripts, old maps, photographs and prints. A paradise for collectors and amateurs, a journey through time, and a world of limitless emotion.
Festivity
This year at the Grand Palais, festivity will be a central theme, a leitmotiv running through a succession of the most eclectic and joyous events. For the Christmas period (December 22 -31), the Nave will be home to merry-go-rounds, fairground attractions and all sorts of games, as Jours de Fêtes returns to the Grand Palais four years after the inaugural edition in 2005. An event for all the family, with a carousel dating back to 1900, special areas earmarked for the very young, and live music with a focus on jazz.
Then, from June 12 - 16, the Nave will be decked out in Russia's national colours, to celebrate Russia Day, the national holiday of the Russian Federation and the 210 Franco-Russian Year. An unmissable opportunity to discover the true face of modern day Russia with a wide range of interdisciplinary installations, exhibitions, concerts and parades, and savour Russian gastronomy.
The extraordinary volume of the Grand Palais and its outstanding location in downtown Paris make it an ideal venue for events that are an instant hit with young people. This year's programme includes three events that specifically target this public: on September 1 basketball comes to the Grand Palais with the "More than a camp" show, alias the LeBron James world tour, featuring top NBA stars; on September 25, the first ever electro night with live concerts in partnership with mobile phone operator SFR, inviting the public to get down to twelve hours of non-stop music; and on November 21 and 22 skateboarding with the Quicksilver Tony Hawk Show, an event featuring the very best exponents of this popular form of urban culture, and starring the most famous skateboarder in history working out on Europe's biggest ramp!
Outstanding event
Excellence is one of the key values at the Grand Palais. The building's architecture and prestige draw events that leave a mark in the heart of those who attend and participate. This is why, in 2010, the Grand Palais is revisiting a tradition that goes back a hundred years: the equestrian event. From 1905 to 1957, the Grand Palais was regularly transformed into a show jumping arena where riders could put their horses through their paces. With the horse show scheduled on April 3 and 4 2010, we invite you to a truly outstanding event. The Grand Palais also invites you to discover "It's our Earth!" a major exhibition to be held in May-June 2010 devoted to sustainable development viewed from all angles: social, economic and environmental.
Art
Since its inauguration in 1900, the Grand Palais has always hosted major art events, regularly staging exhibitions and salons. More than a century later, the Grand Palais is still a leading showcase for creativity, heritage and the art market and brings you five milestone events in the upcoming season: the Salon du collectionneur, September 11-20; FIAC, October 22-25; Art en capital, November 3-9; Monumenta / Christian Boltanski, January 13-February 21; Art Paris, March 18-22.
2010 will open with the 3rd edition of Monumenta, offering a sensorial experience of outstanding intensity. A visual work that also uses sound, Personnes is an original installation through which Christian Boltanski continues to investigate the limits of humanity and the essential dimension that is memory.
Another landmark in the season is the International Antiquarian Book Fair and the International Fine Print Fair, from April 16-18, an opportunity to discover remarkable treasures: sets of rare books, original manuscripts, old maps, photographs and prints. A paradise for collectors and amateurs, a journey through time, and a world of limitless emotion.
Festivity
This year at the Grand Palais, festivity will be a central theme, a leitmotiv running through a succession of the most eclectic and joyous events. For the Christmas period (December 22 -31), the Nave will be home to merry-go-rounds, fairground attractions and all sorts of games, as Jours de Fêtes returns to the Grand Palais four years after the inaugural edition in 2005. An event for all the family, with a carousel dating back to 1900, special areas earmarked for the very young, and live music with a focus on jazz.
Then, from June 12 - 16, the Nave will be decked out in Russia's national colours, to celebrate Russia Day, the national holiday of the Russian Federation and the 210 Franco-Russian Year. An unmissable opportunity to discover the true face of modern day Russia with a wide range of interdisciplinary installations, exhibitions, concerts and parades, and savour Russian gastronomy.
Events
© Coll. Grand Palais, François Tomasi
"More than a game", LeBron James world tour
September 1 2009
Basketball is due to make its first appearance at the Grand Palais with the visit of one of its biggest stars: LeBron James, voted NBA's Most Valuable Player for the 2008-9 season. Organised by Nike, the tour event will enable young talents in the 14 - 16 age group to savour the sheer thrill of a coaching session with their idol! The programme of this outstanding one-day event, at which LeBron will be joined by fellow stars Tony Parker and Mike Pietrus, features matches and dunks (shooting contests).
September 1 2009
Basketball is due to make its first appearance at the Grand Palais with the visit of one of its biggest stars: LeBron James, voted NBA's Most Valuable Player for the 2008-9 season. Organised by Nike, the tour event will enable young talents in the 14 - 16 age group to savour the sheer thrill of a coaching session with their idol! The programme of this outstanding one-day event, at which LeBron will be joined by fellow stars Tony Parker and Mike Pietrus, features matches and dunks (shooting contests).
The Salon du collectionneur
September 11 - 20 2009
The Salon du Collectionneur reflects the dynamism and diversity of the Paris art market. Some one hundred antique dealers and art galleries will be exhibiting a selection of high quality works featuring every speciality, from Antiquity to the present day: old weaponry, and historical curios, jewellery, painting, drawings, sculptures, rugs, tapestries and more.
This 4th edition will feature a cycle of talks on cultural themes, hands-on presentations of various artistic professions, and exhibitions of private collections: a booth will pay tribute to Dina Vierny (with the collaboration of the Dina Vierny Foundation and the Musée Maillol), and there will be a special presentation of a private collection of around 130 flower holders.
Other special sections you will not want to miss are "Les dinosaures du Collectionneur", 400 m² of natural history exhibits including meteorites, fossils, and skeletons of plesiosaurus, dinosaurs, and sabre-tooth tigers, as well as the selection for the 9th SNA art book prize and clock-making workshops, proposed by craftsmen from the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie.
The Salon du collectionneur is staying true to its educational and cultural mission, with a series of daily talks. Jean-Gabriel Peyre, member of the Cultural Commission, has again invited top specialists to "introduce novices to a range of areas in art and provide deeper insights for those who are already more familiar".
The Salon du Collectionneur is organised by the French antique dealers association (Syndicat national des antiquaires) and produced by Décoral.
September 11 - 20 2009
The Salon du Collectionneur reflects the dynamism and diversity of the Paris art market. Some one hundred antique dealers and art galleries will be exhibiting a selection of high quality works featuring every speciality, from Antiquity to the present day: old weaponry, and historical curios, jewellery, painting, drawings, sculptures, rugs, tapestries and more.
This 4th edition will feature a cycle of talks on cultural themes, hands-on presentations of various artistic professions, and exhibitions of private collections: a booth will pay tribute to Dina Vierny (with the collaboration of the Dina Vierny Foundation and the Musée Maillol), and there will be a special presentation of a private collection of around 130 flower holders.
Other special sections you will not want to miss are "Les dinosaures du Collectionneur", 400 m² of natural history exhibits including meteorites, fossils, and skeletons of plesiosaurus, dinosaurs, and sabre-tooth tigers, as well as the selection for the 9th SNA art book prize and clock-making workshops, proposed by craftsmen from the Fondation de la Haute Horlogerie.
The Salon du collectionneur is staying true to its educational and cultural mission, with a series of daily talks. Jean-Gabriel Peyre, member of the Cultural Commission, has again invited top specialists to "introduce novices to a range of areas in art and provide deeper insights for those who are already more familiar".
The Salon du Collectionneur is organised by the French antique dealers association (Syndicat national des antiquaires) and produced by Décoral.
1st electro night at the Grand Palais / SFR live concerts
September 25 2009
For the first musical event since the summer break, the Nave of the Grand Palais will be transformed into an "electro scene" on the night of Friday September 25 2009, SFR Live Concerts offers twelve hours of eclectic, visual and festive concerts at the Grand Palais and the Show Case. The show will explore the vast area that is now electronic music, and feature young talents from the competition run by SFR, the mobile phone operator, exciting new stars and established artists. The first part of the evening, from 6:00 pm to midnight, will be dedicated to live shows, and will be followed till 6:00 am, by an enormous party, the Nave morphing into an immense dance floor. In all a 100% electro night designed as a musical platform for a "community" and multiplexed live over the Internet, mobile phones and TV.
With Etienne De Crecy, Birdy Nam Nam, Matias Aguayo, Mondkopf, Felix Da Housecat, Surkin, Dj Hell.
An event created by Etablissement public du Grand Palais and organised by Lune rousse, Artevia, SFR.
September 25 2009
For the first musical event since the summer break, the Nave of the Grand Palais will be transformed into an "electro scene" on the night of Friday September 25 2009, SFR Live Concerts offers twelve hours of eclectic, visual and festive concerts at the Grand Palais and the Show Case. The show will explore the vast area that is now electronic music, and feature young talents from the competition run by SFR, the mobile phone operator, exciting new stars and established artists. The first part of the evening, from 6:00 pm to midnight, will be dedicated to live shows, and will be followed till 6:00 am, by an enormous party, the Nave morphing into an immense dance floor. In all a 100% electro night designed as a musical platform for a "community" and multiplexed live over the Internet, mobile phones and TV.
With Etienne De Crecy, Birdy Nam Nam, Matias Aguayo, Mondkopf, Felix Da Housecat, Surkin, Dj Hell.
An event created by Etablissement public du Grand Palais and organised by Lune rousse, Artevia, SFR.
FIAC
October 22 - 25 2009
Each autumn, the Grand Palais has a date with FIAC, one of the biggest international contemporary art market fairs.
For the 36th edition of FIAC, modern and contemporary art will be well represented with 114 galleries exhibiting in the Nave, including 29 new exhibitors from all over Europe and the United States.
In 2009, for the first time, a joint presentation of major modern works will be staged at the Grand Palais over an area of 300 m2, at the initiative of eight of the leading international galleries, offering dealers a place at the heart of the art market. The initiative has been named "modern project" and its originality is emblematic of a concept that is key at the Grand Palais: the avant-garde.
The paintings, sculptures, photos and designs will be hand-picked to enthral professionals and the general public alike.
The event is organised by Reed Exhibitions.
October 22 - 25 2009
Each autumn, the Grand Palais has a date with FIAC, one of the biggest international contemporary art market fairs.
For the 36th edition of FIAC, modern and contemporary art will be well represented with 114 galleries exhibiting in the Nave, including 29 new exhibitors from all over Europe and the United States.
In 2009, for the first time, a joint presentation of major modern works will be staged at the Grand Palais over an area of 300 m2, at the initiative of eight of the leading international galleries, offering dealers a place at the heart of the art market. The initiative has been named "modern project" and its originality is emblematic of a concept that is key at the Grand Palais: the avant-garde.
The paintings, sculptures, photos and designs will be hand-picked to enthral professionals and the general public alike.
The event is organised by Reed Exhibitions.
© Coll. Grand Palais,
Raphaël Gaillarde
Raphaël Gaillarde
Art en Capital
November 3 - 9 2009
The prestigious glass roof of the Grand Palais provides the setting for works by over 2,000 artists!
Art en Capital brings together painters working in both figurative and abstract styles who are representative of their time.
This is an original, indeed unique event, as it is the only major exhibition to be organised by the artists themselves, independently from the usual dealer channels.
Art en Capital unites five historic salons: le Salon des artistes indépendants, le Salon des artistes français, le Salon du dessin et de la peinture à l'eau, le Salon national des beaux-arts, and Comparaisons.
The exhibition is a chance to follow the trace of Art. Each painting and each embodies some aspect of past trends and influences, or inflections of the present day. Art en Capital is an opportunity to relax and enjoy an unconstrained artistic promenade, an itinerary through sensitive experience, unaffected by received opinion or the influence of the galleries.
November 3 - 9 2009
The prestigious glass roof of the Grand Palais provides the setting for works by over 2,000 artists!
Art en Capital brings together painters working in both figurative and abstract styles who are representative of their time.
This is an original, indeed unique event, as it is the only major exhibition to be organised by the artists themselves, independently from the usual dealer channels.
Art en Capital unites five historic salons: le Salon des artistes indépendants, le Salon des artistes français, le Salon du dessin et de la peinture à l'eau, le Salon national des beaux-arts, and Comparaisons.
The exhibition is a chance to follow the trace of Art. Each painting and each embodies some aspect of past trends and influences, or inflections of the present day. Art en Capital is an opportunity to relax and enjoy an unconstrained artistic promenade, an itinerary through sensitive experience, unaffected by received opinion or the influence of the galleries.
Quiksilver Tony Hawk Show
November 20 - 21 2009
Imagine this: the most famous skateboarder in history, the biggest ramp in Europe, a historic building in Paris, a musical programme featuring international stars, an exhibition of urban art and trends.
Quiksilver is creating an event that will be a totally atypical experience, mixing skateboard, music and artistic discovery at the Grand Palais.
World skateboard champion, Tony Hawk, accompanied by some of the world's top ramp-riders (Andy MacDonald, Jean Poster, Kevin Staab, J, Jesse Fritsch and Sergie Ventura) will be demonstrating their virtuosity on the evening of Saturday November 21 on Europe's biggest skate ramp, erected in the Nave.
To crown this very singular meeting of sport and architecture, a concert by an internationally famous rock group is scheduled for November 21 as a prelude to the Tony Hawk Show.
A gigantic street area will be set aside for amateur and professional skateboarders from the Paris region for two whole days. Competition and demonstrations by the elite of the Quiksilver Team: street skating with Dominik Dietrich, Ross Mac Gouran, and Manuel Margreiter; ramp skating with Sascha Muller, Pete King and Sam Bosworth, not to forget the outstanding presence of skate stars Christian Hosoi, Omar Hassan, Javier Mendizabal and Daniel Cardone..., and free initiation by pros from the Quiksilver teams.
At the same time, Quiksilver invites leading exponents of urban art forms like André (Mr A.) to exhibit their work in the Nave of the Grand Palais.
An event organised by Quiksilver.
November 20 - 21 2009
Imagine this: the most famous skateboarder in history, the biggest ramp in Europe, a historic building in Paris, a musical programme featuring international stars, an exhibition of urban art and trends.
Quiksilver is creating an event that will be a totally atypical experience, mixing skateboard, music and artistic discovery at the Grand Palais.
World skateboard champion, Tony Hawk, accompanied by some of the world's top ramp-riders (Andy MacDonald, Jean Poster, Kevin Staab, J, Jesse Fritsch and Sergie Ventura) will be demonstrating their virtuosity on the evening of Saturday November 21 on Europe's biggest skate ramp, erected in the Nave.
To crown this very singular meeting of sport and architecture, a concert by an internationally famous rock group is scheduled for November 21 as a prelude to the Tony Hawk Show.
A gigantic street area will be set aside for amateur and professional skateboarders from the Paris region for two whole days. Competition and demonstrations by the elite of the Quiksilver Team: street skating with Dominik Dietrich, Ross Mac Gouran, and Manuel Margreiter; ramp skating with Sascha Muller, Pete King and Sam Bosworth, not to forget the outstanding presence of skate stars Christian Hosoi, Omar Hassan, Javier Mendizabal and Daniel Cardone..., and free initiation by pros from the Quiksilver teams.
At the same time, Quiksilver invites leading exponents of urban art forms like André (Mr A.) to exhibit their work in the Nave of the Grand Palais.
An event organised by Quiksilver.
© Coll. Grand Palais,
Didier Plowy
Didier Plowy
Jours de fêtes
December 22 - 31 2009
A huge breath of fresh air will sweep through the Grand Palais with a fun event for all the family: Jours de fêtes. Following on from the success of the inaugural edition in 2005, which drew 250,000 visitors, the second edition will set out to recreate the magical "happy days" atmosphere in a fairground atmosphere, swinging to the strains of "manouche" style gypsy jazz.
For the end-of-year festivities, the Nave will have a big wheel, a 1900 merry-go-round and a special "children's world" area made up of 10 games accessible free of charge to young children. There will also be exhibitions of collections to learn more about the fairground heritage. To celebrate the one hundredth anniversary of the birth of guitar legend Django Reinhardt, the biggest names in gypsy jazz will be at the party. Enjoyment guaranteed for children and adults alike.
The event was initiated by the Etablissement public du Grand Palais.
December 22 - 31 2009
A huge breath of fresh air will sweep through the Grand Palais with a fun event for all the family: Jours de fêtes. Following on from the success of the inaugural edition in 2005, which drew 250,000 visitors, the second edition will set out to recreate the magical "happy days" atmosphere in a fairground atmosphere, swinging to the strains of "manouche" style gypsy jazz.
For the end-of-year festivities, the Nave will have a big wheel, a 1900 merry-go-round and a special "children's world" area made up of 10 games accessible free of charge to young children. There will also be exhibitions of collections to learn more about the fairground heritage. To celebrate the one hundredth anniversary of the birth of guitar legend Django Reinhardt, the biggest names in gypsy jazz will be at the party. Enjoyment guaranteed for children and adults alike.
The event was initiated by the Etablissement public du Grand Palais.
Monumenta 2010. Christian Boltanski, Personnes
January 13 - February 21 2010
The sheer volume of the Grand Palais was the starting point for an idea on a gigantic scale: Monumenta.
For the 3rd edition, Monumenta has invited one of France's most important artists: Christian Boltanski. The narrator and chronicler of individual memory is designing his installation specially for Monumenta as a powerful experience, on both the physical and psychological levels, a spectacular moment of emotion which calls into question the nature and meaning of humanity. A visual work that also uses sound, it will pursue the artist's consideration of the limits of humanity and the essential dimension that is memory, while at the same time approaching a new theme: the question of destiny and the ineluctability of death. A theatre for remembrance, Monumenta 2010 queries the meaning of human destiny and reaffirms the right for each individual to be part of collective memory.
Following on from Anselm Kiefer (2007) and Richard Serra (2008), Christian Boltanski will close with Personnes the first cycle of Monumenta exhibitions, offering visitors a sensitive experience of outstanding intensity for five weeks.
Mediators will be on hand at Monumenta 2010 to help visitors in their approach to the work, and other strong features will be educational workshops, and a cultural programme, every Friday and Saturday throughout the show in the Grand Palais projection room with lectures, discussions, films, etc.
An event initiated by the Ministry of Culture (delegation for the visual arts) and produced by the Centre national des arts plastiques (CNAP), the Établissement public du Grand Palais (EPGPCE), with the Réunion des musées nationaux (RMN).
January 13 - February 21 2010
The sheer volume of the Grand Palais was the starting point for an idea on a gigantic scale: Monumenta.
For the 3rd edition, Monumenta has invited one of France's most important artists: Christian Boltanski. The narrator and chronicler of individual memory is designing his installation specially for Monumenta as a powerful experience, on both the physical and psychological levels, a spectacular moment of emotion which calls into question the nature and meaning of humanity. A visual work that also uses sound, it will pursue the artist's consideration of the limits of humanity and the essential dimension that is memory, while at the same time approaching a new theme: the question of destiny and the ineluctability of death. A theatre for remembrance, Monumenta 2010 queries the meaning of human destiny and reaffirms the right for each individual to be part of collective memory.
Following on from Anselm Kiefer (2007) and Richard Serra (2008), Christian Boltanski will close with Personnes the first cycle of Monumenta exhibitions, offering visitors a sensitive experience of outstanding intensity for five weeks.
Mediators will be on hand at Monumenta 2010 to help visitors in their approach to the work, and other strong features will be educational workshops, and a cultural programme, every Friday and Saturday throughout the show in the Grand Palais projection room with lectures, discussions, films, etc.
An event initiated by the Ministry of Culture (delegation for the visual arts) and produced by the Centre national des arts plastiques (CNAP), the Établissement public du Grand Palais (EPGPCE), with the Réunion des musées nationaux (RMN).
© Coll. Grand Palais,
François Tomasi
François Tomasi
Art Paris
March 18 - 22 2010
The artistic event of the spring, Art Paris is back at the Grand Palais with a new concept. Art Paris draws on the strength of the network of Paris galleries that are such active players on the international art market. This fair gives them the opportunity to create "an event within the event" by joining up with partners - "Guests" - or other international galleries, foundations, collectors, and even designers, writers, film directors, architects, fashions designers, musicians, and top chefs... Art Paris + Guests aims to become a place to meet and exchange ideas, reflecting the vitality of the Paris art market and the French art scene.
With Art Paris + Guests, placing the emphasis on invention and crossover, gallery owners and their guest partners or co-producers become the exhibition's associate commissioners. The glass roof of the Grand Palais sheds a new light on the range and strength of the Paris art scene.
March 18 - 22 2010
The artistic event of the spring, Art Paris is back at the Grand Palais with a new concept. Art Paris draws on the strength of the network of Paris galleries that are such active players on the international art market. This fair gives them the opportunity to create "an event within the event" by joining up with partners - "Guests" - or other international galleries, foundations, collectors, and even designers, writers, film directors, architects, fashions designers, musicians, and top chefs... Art Paris + Guests aims to become a place to meet and exchange ideas, reflecting the vitality of the Paris art market and the French art scene.
With Art Paris + Guests, placing the emphasis on invention and crossover, gallery owners and their guest partners or co-producers become the exhibition's associate commissioners. The glass roof of the Grand Palais sheds a new light on the range and strength of the Paris art scene.
© Coll. Grand Palais
Cosimo Mirco Magliocca
Cosimo Mirco Magliocca
Equestrian event and competition
April 3 - 4 2010
The Nave is revisiting a tradition that is a big part of the history of the Grand Palais: horse shows.
The first show jump in the building's vast interior was held as far back as 1901, and these competitions, held each spring, subsequently became an annual highlight for the equestrian community, as professionals and amateurs alike came to admire harnessed teams, thoroughbreds, and the skill of the riders. The event drew all of the fashionable youth of Paris and explains why the name "paddock" is still used for the vast area facing the Great Staircase.
With the growing popularity of the motor car, horse shows fell out of favour, but the Grand Palais is about to turn the clock back and stage equestrian sport for the first time since 1957. The two-day event promises to be outstanding, with five-star international show jumping competition and exciting equestrian demonstrations and parades in the Nave.
April 3 - 4 2010
The Nave is revisiting a tradition that is a big part of the history of the Grand Palais: horse shows.
The first show jump in the building's vast interior was held as far back as 1901, and these competitions, held each spring, subsequently became an annual highlight for the equestrian community, as professionals and amateurs alike came to admire harnessed teams, thoroughbreds, and the skill of the riders. The event drew all of the fashionable youth of Paris and explains why the name "paddock" is still used for the vast area facing the Great Staircase.
With the growing popularity of the motor car, horse shows fell out of favour, but the Grand Palais is about to turn the clock back and stage equestrian sport for the first time since 1957. The two-day event promises to be outstanding, with five-star international show jumping competition and exciting equestrian demonstrations and parades in the Nave.
© Coll. Grand Palais, François Tomasi
International Antiquarian Book Fair / International Fine Print Fair
April 16 - 18 2010
For three days, the Grand Palais will provide a great historic setting for the most remarkable collection of antiquarian books, original manuscripts, old maps, photographs, and fine prints, all on show at the International Antiquarian Book Fair twinned with the International Fine Print Fair.
This is one of the world's most prestigious events in its field, and an exceptional opportunity to see at close quarters a rich selection of the world's heritage.
The 22nd edition will feature lectures, exhibitions, guided tours, concerts, the "Discover antiquarian books" stand, the bibliography prize award… In a word, a collectors' paradise, a journey through time, and a world of emotion.
En event organised by the Syndicat national de la Librairie ancienne et moderne (SLAM).
April 16 - 18 2010
For three days, the Grand Palais will provide a great historic setting for the most remarkable collection of antiquarian books, original manuscripts, old maps, photographs, and fine prints, all on show at the International Antiquarian Book Fair twinned with the International Fine Print Fair.
This is one of the world's most prestigious events in its field, and an exceptional opportunity to see at close quarters a rich selection of the world's heritage.
The 22nd edition will feature lectures, exhibitions, guided tours, concerts, the "Discover antiquarian books" stand, the bibliography prize award… In a word, a collectors' paradise, a journey through time, and a world of emotion.
En event organised by the Syndicat national de la Librairie ancienne et moderne (SLAM).
It's our Earth
May 6 - 12 June 2010
It's our Earth! is an event devoted to sustainable development that sets out to show the multiple facets ─ social, economic and environmental ─ of this massively important contemporary issue.
Supported by top personalities including Élie Barnavi, the exhibition was inaugurated in Brussels where it was a huge success, winning the award for "Best Touristical Event 2008".
It's our Earth! approaches sustainable development from the viewpoint of humanity, central to the exhibition. The original scenography includes an art exhibition (some twenty works reflect the way that contemporary artists see sustainable development), an exhibition on society (laid out to reflect our times), an exhibition of poignant items including the first footsteps left by mankind on the Earth, our ancestor Lucy, the very first art forms (the Lascaux cave paintings), a drill core of ice showing 800,000 years of climate change, and an exhibition for children (several areas are set aside for the very young).
An exhibition designed by the Tempora agency and co-produced with the Etablissement public du Grand Palais.
May 6 - 12 June 2010
It's our Earth! is an event devoted to sustainable development that sets out to show the multiple facets ─ social, economic and environmental ─ of this massively important contemporary issue.
Supported by top personalities including Élie Barnavi, the exhibition was inaugurated in Brussels where it was a huge success, winning the award for "Best Touristical Event 2008".
It's our Earth! approaches sustainable development from the viewpoint of humanity, central to the exhibition. The original scenography includes an art exhibition (some twenty works reflect the way that contemporary artists see sustainable development), an exhibition on society (laid out to reflect our times), an exhibition of poignant items including the first footsteps left by mankind on the Earth, our ancestor Lucy, the very first art forms (the Lascaux cave paintings), a drill core of ice showing 800,000 years of climate change, and an exhibition for children (several areas are set aside for the very young).
An exhibition designed by the Tempora agency and co-produced with the Etablissement public du Grand Palais.
Russian Year in France
June 12 - 16 2010
To celebrate Russia Day, the national holiday of the Russian Federation, and the 2010 Franco-Russian Year, the Nave will be decked out in Russia's national colours. Beyond the clichés, visitors will have the chance to discover the true face of modern day Russia via exhibits set out along a route from the Grand Palais to the Esplanade des Invalides. The National Exhibition at the Grand Palais will showcase the latest progress made in Russia in the fields of space, aeronautics, new technologies and cultural industries. These themes that are traditionally central to the Grand Palais will be enriched with contemporary art exhibitions, concerts, circus acts, and journeys through Russian gastronomy.
For five days experience something different with the genius of the Russian people!
An event organized by the Russian Ministry of Industry and produced by ArtInterforum.
June 12 - 16 2010
To celebrate Russia Day, the national holiday of the Russian Federation, and the 2010 Franco-Russian Year, the Nave will be decked out in Russia's national colours. Beyond the clichés, visitors will have the chance to discover the true face of modern day Russia via exhibits set out along a route from the Grand Palais to the Esplanade des Invalides. The National Exhibition at the Grand Palais will showcase the latest progress made in Russia in the fields of space, aeronautics, new technologies and cultural industries. These themes that are traditionally central to the Grand Palais will be enriched with contemporary art exhibitions, concerts, circus acts, and journeys through Russian gastronomy.
For five days experience something different with the genius of the Russian people!
An event organized by the Russian Ministry of Industry and produced by ArtInterforum.
Tuesdays at the Grand Palais / Season 2
Every Tuesday, 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Every Tuesday the Grand Palais offers you the chance to attend lecture/debates with a fascinating opportunity to hear specialists trade opinions and analyses in partnership with the publishers Presses universitaires de France.
The debates will focus on issues of contemporary relevance and are organised in cycles of three or four sessions. Speakers and panellists will include artists, academics, and recognised specialists, who will be invited to discuss the topics with the audience.
The second season of Tuesdays at the Grand Palais explores original cycles and continues to focus on themes that reflect the programme of events in the Nave. The moderator for the cycle is Arnaud Laporte, producer of the radio programme Tout arrive ! broadcast by France Culture.
During the 2009/2010 season, the following cycles will be on the programme:
- November 10 - 24: gastronomy
- December 1 - 15: how to present culture
- January 12 - 26: art and history
- February 2 - 16: cinema
- March 9 - 23: architecture
- March 30 - April 13: writing
- May 4 - 18: sustainable development
- May 25 - June 8: the body
- June 15 - 29: seduction
Tuesdays at the Grand Palais are organised by the Établissement public du Grand Palais in partnership with Presses universitaires de France.
Every Tuesday, 6:30 pm - 8:00 pm
Every Tuesday the Grand Palais offers you the chance to attend lecture/debates with a fascinating opportunity to hear specialists trade opinions and analyses in partnership with the publishers Presses universitaires de France.
The debates will focus on issues of contemporary relevance and are organised in cycles of three or four sessions. Speakers and panellists will include artists, academics, and recognised specialists, who will be invited to discuss the topics with the audience.
The second season of Tuesdays at the Grand Palais explores original cycles and continues to focus on themes that reflect the programme of events in the Nave. The moderator for the cycle is Arnaud Laporte, producer of the radio programme Tout arrive ! broadcast by France Culture.
During the 2009/2010 season, the following cycles will be on the programme:
- November 10 - 24: gastronomy
- December 1 - 15: how to present culture
- January 12 - 26: art and history
- February 2 - 16: cinema
- March 9 - 23: architecture
- March 30 - April 13: writing
- May 4 - 18: sustainable development
- May 25 - June 8: the body
- June 15 - 29: seduction
Tuesdays at the Grand Palais are organised by the Établissement public du Grand Palais in partnership with Presses universitaires de France.
Tuesdays at the Grand Palais / Season 2
Saison 2
Every Tuesday the Grand Palais offers you the chance to attend lecture/debates with a fascinating opportunity to hear specialists trade opinions and analyses in partnership with the publishers Presses universitaires de France.
The debates will focus on issues of contemporary relevance and are organised in cycles of three or four sessions. Speakers and panellists will include artists, academics, and recognised specialists, who will be invited to discuss the topics with the audience.
The second season of Tuesdays at the Grand Palais explores original cycles and continues to focus on themes that reflect the programme of events in the Nave. The moderator for the cycle is Arnaud Laporte, producer of the radio programme Tout arrive ! broadcast by France Culture.
During the 2009/2010 season, the following cycles will be on the programme:
November 10 - 24: Gastronomy
December 1 - 15: How to present culture
January 12 - 26: Art and History
February 2 - 16: Cinema
March 9 - 23: Architecture
March 30 - April 13: Writing
May 4 - 18: Sustainable development
May 25 - June 8: The Body
June 15 - 29: Seduction
Tuesdays at the Grand Palais are organised by the Établissement public du Grand Palais in partnership with Presses universitaires de France.
Practical information:
Every Tuesday from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm except during school holidays.
Entrance is free but must be booked (number of seats limited) at: mardis@grandpalais.fr
Grand Palais projection room
Every Tuesday the Grand Palais offers you the chance to attend lecture/debates with a fascinating opportunity to hear specialists trade opinions and analyses in partnership with the publishers Presses universitaires de France.
The debates will focus on issues of contemporary relevance and are organised in cycles of three or four sessions. Speakers and panellists will include artists, academics, and recognised specialists, who will be invited to discuss the topics with the audience.
The second season of Tuesdays at the Grand Palais explores original cycles and continues to focus on themes that reflect the programme of events in the Nave. The moderator for the cycle is Arnaud Laporte, producer of the radio programme Tout arrive ! broadcast by France Culture.
During the 2009/2010 season, the following cycles will be on the programme:
November 10 - 24: Gastronomy
December 1 - 15: How to present culture
January 12 - 26: Art and History
February 2 - 16: Cinema
March 9 - 23: Architecture
March 30 - April 13: Writing
May 4 - 18: Sustainable development
May 25 - June 8: The Body
June 15 - 29: Seduction
Tuesdays at the Grand Palais are organised by the Établissement public du Grand Palais in partnership with Presses universitaires de France.
Practical information:
Every Tuesday from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm except during school holidays.
Entrance is free but must be booked (number of seats limited) at: mardis@grandpalais.fr
Grand Palais projection room
New public reception and information facilities
Designed for the Universal Exhibition in 1900, the Grand Palais has a rich, diverse and prestigious history. Its tumultuous past and exciting programme have always aroused the curiosity of visitors, and the Grand Palais is taking new initiatives to satisfy this thirst for more knowledge and understanding.
The Grand Palais opens its doors
For the first time, the Grand Palais opens the doors of its main entrance hall daily from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 pm. This huge area of more than 300 m2, surrounded by glass walls, has been embellished with a specially executed work by Daniel Buren, entitled Sur le seuil, dans la couleur (On the threshold, in colour). The public has free to access to this vast lobby, offering a vantage point from which to admire the thousand facets of the Nave and try the free Grand Palais information downloads via a bluetooth "hotspot". These contain French and English versions of items on the history, highlights, events, behind-the-scenes stories of the building, and also first-hand accounts of their experience of the Grand Palais from top personalities like Karl Lagerfeld and Daniel Buren. This new facility was inaugurated on July 18 2009.
Stay in contact with the Grand Palais
The Grand Palais has always been close to the cutting edge of technology, and in mid-August 2009, launched a new I-phone application. The free downloads are available from the App-store in French and English, and their innovative design brings attractive, regularly updated content, and enriched iconographic resources. Swinging open its real and virtual doors, the Grand Palais is only the second cultural site in France to offer an I-phone application. The project has been an instant hit, with 10,000 downloads in the first 10 days!
To accompany these developments, the www.grandpalais.fr Web site is also being updated: a new section entitled "Prepare your visit" that you can use at home or in Wi-Fi enabled public facilities, to listen to items and download them and make it easier for you to explore the building.
Whether you use the bluetooth "hotspot", your mobile phone or your computer, you now have a choice of options for keeping in touch with the Grand Palais!
The Grand Palais opens its doors
For the first time, the Grand Palais opens the doors of its main entrance hall daily from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 pm. This huge area of more than 300 m2, surrounded by glass walls, has been embellished with a specially executed work by Daniel Buren, entitled Sur le seuil, dans la couleur (On the threshold, in colour). The public has free to access to this vast lobby, offering a vantage point from which to admire the thousand facets of the Nave and try the free Grand Palais information downloads via a bluetooth "hotspot". These contain French and English versions of items on the history, highlights, events, behind-the-scenes stories of the building, and also first-hand accounts of their experience of the Grand Palais from top personalities like Karl Lagerfeld and Daniel Buren. This new facility was inaugurated on July 18 2009.
Stay in contact with the Grand Palais
The Grand Palais has always been close to the cutting edge of technology, and in mid-August 2009, launched a new I-phone application. The free downloads are available from the App-store in French and English, and their innovative design brings attractive, regularly updated content, and enriched iconographic resources. Swinging open its real and virtual doors, the Grand Palais is only the second cultural site in France to offer an I-phone application. The project has been an instant hit, with 10,000 downloads in the first 10 days!
To accompany these developments, the www.grandpalais.fr Web site is also being updated: a new section entitled "Prepare your visit" that you can use at home or in Wi-Fi enabled public facilities, to listen to items and download them and make it easier for you to explore the building.
Whether you use the bluetooth "hotspot", your mobile phone or your computer, you now have a choice of options for keeping in touch with the Grand Palais!
New areas in 2010
The Grand Palais will be bigger and look even better
In 2008 the Grand Palais launched an ambitious restoration and development programme. In 2009, you can discover the new areas that will define what the Grand Palais will look like in years to come, as well as the broad range of events on the programme. All of these areas can be used independently or as an auxiliary facility for an event taking place in the Nave. After the opening of the digital projection room in 2009, they also offer an opportunity to expand the choice of areas available for hire at the Grand Palais.
The VIP lounge (former "salon d'honneur")
A flagship project for the renovation of the Grand Palais. Located in the heart of the building, the VIP lounge is a magnificent, glass-roofed area of 1,200 m2. In 1900, before falling into disuse, this forgotten room was the setting for sumptuous events, and high-society receptions. Access to the lounge from the Nave via the Great Staircase, walled up for 40 years, was finally reopened in March 2009. The restoration work is due for completion in the summer of 2010. The VIP lounge will regain its former splendour and be an ideal setting for receptions, gala evenings, exhibitions, conventions and AGMs.
The South-East Gallery
This 700 m2 area with 11-foot high glass roof and separate entrance via the Fine Arts Staircase is currently being redeveloped. It will be available to host exhibitions and events such as receptions, symposia, conventions, and fashion shows. Work is due for completion at the end of 2010.
The roughcast appearance of the gallery as it awaited restoration provided a great backdrop for the Tag exhibition held at the Grand Palais from March 27 to April 26 2009. The show was a great success drawing 80,000 visitors in 5 weeks, earning a one-week extension.
The Alexandre-III and Queen's Rotundas
Due to open to the public at the end of 2009 the refurbished rotundas are being restored to their former splendour, with ivory tint, restored mosaics, superb bronze doors and glass ceilings.
Improved visitor conditions
Improving conditions for visitors is a central public service mission for the Grand Palais.
Built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, the building was never adapted with facilities for the modern world. The EPGPCE, the new management body set up in 2009, started work to improve visitor comfort and disabled access. Access, service areas, circulations (lifts, ramps and staircases) and clearances will be created in 2010.
It is important for the Grand Palais to be both elegant and comfortable, and this was part of the brief for the architecture competition organised for this latest phase of development work. The winner, the Beckmann-N'Thépé agency, was awarded the contract for its chiaroscuro design which aims to "define precious moments by using the interaction of penumbra and light to create tableaux vivants".
A Grand Palais patron, the Prévoir group, is committed to contributing to the improvement of access conditions in the building, and is supplying new lifts that will facilitate access for all visitors, without distinction ─ an imperative for the Grand Palais. The goal is to be ready in time for the world fencing championships, including competitions for disabled athletes, due to be held in the Nave in autumn 2010: the first time ever for this competition.
In 2008 the Grand Palais launched an ambitious restoration and development programme. In 2009, you can discover the new areas that will define what the Grand Palais will look like in years to come, as well as the broad range of events on the programme. All of these areas can be used independently or as an auxiliary facility for an event taking place in the Nave. After the opening of the digital projection room in 2009, they also offer an opportunity to expand the choice of areas available for hire at the Grand Palais.
The VIP lounge (former "salon d'honneur")
A flagship project for the renovation of the Grand Palais. Located in the heart of the building, the VIP lounge is a magnificent, glass-roofed area of 1,200 m2. In 1900, before falling into disuse, this forgotten room was the setting for sumptuous events, and high-society receptions. Access to the lounge from the Nave via the Great Staircase, walled up for 40 years, was finally reopened in March 2009. The restoration work is due for completion in the summer of 2010. The VIP lounge will regain its former splendour and be an ideal setting for receptions, gala evenings, exhibitions, conventions and AGMs.
The South-East Gallery
This 700 m2 area with 11-foot high glass roof and separate entrance via the Fine Arts Staircase is currently being redeveloped. It will be available to host exhibitions and events such as receptions, symposia, conventions, and fashion shows. Work is due for completion at the end of 2010.
The roughcast appearance of the gallery as it awaited restoration provided a great backdrop for the Tag exhibition held at the Grand Palais from March 27 to April 26 2009. The show was a great success drawing 80,000 visitors in 5 weeks, earning a one-week extension.
The Alexandre-III and Queen's Rotundas
Due to open to the public at the end of 2009 the refurbished rotundas are being restored to their former splendour, with ivory tint, restored mosaics, superb bronze doors and glass ceilings.
Improved visitor conditions
Improving conditions for visitors is a central public service mission for the Grand Palais.
Built for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, the building was never adapted with facilities for the modern world. The EPGPCE, the new management body set up in 2009, started work to improve visitor comfort and disabled access. Access, service areas, circulations (lifts, ramps and staircases) and clearances will be created in 2010.
It is important for the Grand Palais to be both elegant and comfortable, and this was part of the brief for the architecture competition organised for this latest phase of development work. The winner, the Beckmann-N'Thépé agency, was awarded the contract for its chiaroscuro design which aims to "define precious moments by using the interaction of penumbra and light to create tableaux vivants".
A Grand Palais patron, the Prévoir group, is committed to contributing to the improvement of access conditions in the building, and is supplying new lifts that will facilitate access for all visitors, without distinction ─ an imperative for the Grand Palais. The goal is to be ready in time for the world fencing championships, including competitions for disabled athletes, due to be held in the Nave in autumn 2010: the first time ever for this competition.
Contribute to the life of the Grand Palais
Grands Mécènes
In 2007 and 2009, as part of our top level patronage agreement, Boston Consulting Group has been supporting the development of the activities at the Grand Palais by auditing our pricing policy and the potential commercial usage of the areas earmarked for restoration.
Prévoir supports the Grand Palais, contributing to the improvement of conditions of access to the building. In 2009 Prévoir has financed the lifts that will provide access for all visitors to the upper floors of the rotundas and the Nave balconies.
Mécènes
Vitra, the international publisher and manufacturer of design furniture became a patron of the Grand Palais in 2008, offering the furniture for the projection room and the offices used by the building's administration. Big names in design such as Charles & Ray Eames, Arik Levy, Maarten Van Severen, Ronan & Erwan, Bouroullec and Ron Arad are now represented in the daily life of the Grand Palais.
Parrain
A Grand Palais sponsor, Sony France has supported the Grand Palais by supplying the projection room with the latest HD 4k digital projector. Opening on to the Seine and the Alexandre III bridge, the room, with a capacity of 100 seats, offers not only a superb setting for lecture/debates and private screenings, but also state-of-the-art technology.
Join the Circle of patrons
The EPGPCE (Établissement public du Grand Palais des Champs Elysées) brings private persons and businesses the opportunity to associate themselves with the prestige and influence of the Grand Palais. You can do this by taking part in projects relating to the restoration, embellishment, development and events organised at the building. In recognition of your contribution, the Grand Palais offers you a choice of facilities for your own events and functions, supported by creative, customised communication media.
Find out more
In 2007 and 2009, as part of our top level patronage agreement, Boston Consulting Group has been supporting the development of the activities at the Grand Palais by auditing our pricing policy and the potential commercial usage of the areas earmarked for restoration.
Prévoir supports the Grand Palais, contributing to the improvement of conditions of access to the building. In 2009 Prévoir has financed the lifts that will provide access for all visitors to the upper floors of the rotundas and the Nave balconies.
Mécènes
Vitra, the international publisher and manufacturer of design furniture became a patron of the Grand Palais in 2008, offering the furniture for the projection room and the offices used by the building's administration. Big names in design such as Charles & Ray Eames, Arik Levy, Maarten Van Severen, Ronan & Erwan, Bouroullec and Ron Arad are now represented in the daily life of the Grand Palais.
Parrain
A Grand Palais sponsor, Sony France has supported the Grand Palais by supplying the projection room with the latest HD 4k digital projector. Opening on to the Seine and the Alexandre III bridge, the room, with a capacity of 100 seats, offers not only a superb setting for lecture/debates and private screenings, but also state-of-the-art technology.
Join the Circle of patrons
The EPGPCE (Établissement public du Grand Palais des Champs Elysées) brings private persons and businesses the opportunity to associate themselves with the prestige and influence of the Grand Palais. You can do this by taking part in projects relating to the restoration, embellishment, development and events organised at the building. In recognition of your contribution, the Grand Palais offers you a choice of facilities for your own events and functions, supported by creative, customised communication media.
Find out more
Medias
Photos galleries
LeBron James
A show for collectors, 2009.
SFR Live concerts
Prince at the Grand Palais on October 11 2009
FIAC 2009
Quiksilver Tony Hawk Show
Second edition of Jours de fêtes (2009)
Monumenta 2010
