Art Basel Paris concludes first edition at the Grand Palais with resounding success

The 2024 edition of Art Basel Paris, its first at the iconic Grand Palais, concluded triumphantly, attracting over 65,000 visitors, 195 galleries from 42 countries, and key cultural figures from across the globe. Strong sales, a rich public program, and enthusiastic participation cemented Art Basel Paris' position as a leading cultural powerhouse in the French capital and beyond.

The first edition of Art Basel Paris at the Grand Palais Éphémère has concluded with resounding success, positioning itself as a key cultural event in Paris and beyond. With 153 premier galleries from 42 countries and territories, including 65 galleries operating spaces in France, the fair attracted an overall attendance of more than 65,000 throughout its VIP and public days, including leading figures and rising stars of Paris’ vibrant creative scene. From significant sales to widespread institutional participation, the fair’s debut demonstrated its deep connection with the international art scene.

Exhitors reported a buoyant market with strong sales across all sectors, offering works by globally renowned contemporary artists, 20th-century masters, and emerging talents. Notable pieces by artists such as Louise Bourgeois, Julie Mehretu, Willem de Kooning, and Lee Ufan were placed in prestigious public and private collections. Emerging voices also shone, with works by artists like Paulina Olowska, Camille Henrot, and Lungiswa Gqunta attracting significant attention.

New show sectors and dynamic public program

In celebration of its debut at the Grand Palais, Art Basel Paris introduced “Premise,” a new sector devoted to innovative curatorial proposals, which showcased nine galleries. Additionally, the “Emergence” sector spotlighted 16 galleries focused on emerging artists, reinforcing the fair’s commitment to supporting the next generation of talent.

The event’s ambitious Public Program unfolded across ten iconic locations throughout Paris, with Miu Miu as the official partner. The program emphasized Art Basel’s strong connections with Paris’ rich cultural heritage and other creative industries, bridging art with fashion, design, and performance.

A Global Gathering of Art Patrons and Institutions

Art Basel Paris 2024 welcomed influential collectors and patrons from France, Europe, the Americas, and Asia. More than 220 representatives from major museums and foundations visited, including prestigious institutions such as the Art Institute of Chicago, Centre Pompidou, Fondation Beyeler, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York. This widespread institutional participation reinforced Art Basel Paris’ global reach and its significant role in shaping the international art market.

Distinguished visitors included French President Emmanuel Macron, First Lady Brigitte Macron, and the Minister of Culture, Rachida Dati, underscoring the importance of the fair in France’s cultural landscape.

Art Basel Shop and special collaborations

The second edition of the Art Basel Shop, curated by Sarah Andelman, featured an array of exclusive products and artist collaborations, including the AB by Artist line designed by the collective Claire Fontaine. In addition, partnerships with renowned brands and institutions like Guerlain, Uniqlo x Musée du Louvre, and Paris Saint-Germain Football Club added a unique dimension to the fair’s offerings.

“We worked on Art Basel Paris’ 2024 edition for over two years; seeing it come to life in such an extraordinary way in the heart of Paris has felt truly special.”

Clément Delépine, Director, Art Basel Paris

Looking ahead, Clément Delépine, Director of Art Basel Paris, expressed his pride in the success of the event, stating: “We worked on Art Basel Paris’ 2024 edition for over two years; seeing it come to life in such an extraordinary way in the heart of Paris has felt truly special. Our galleries, partners, collectors, and visitors have all contributed to the undeniable enthusiasm we have witnessed across the city, and I am immensely grateful for their support.”

Supported by groupe Galeries Lafayette, artist Steffani Jemison, represented by Madragoa (Lisbon), was selected by a jury to produce a new artwork in 2025 at Lafayette Anticipations. Madragoa’s participation fee will be reimbursed as part of this initiative, reflecting Art Basel’s continued dedication to supporting artists and galleries.

The next edition of Art Basel Paris is set to take place from October 24 to 26, 2025, further building on the remarkable momentum of this year’s event.