Portes Ouvertes in Paris – Meet Talented Artists from All Over the World
November 7, 2013
Portes Ouvertes means “Open doors”. It’s not obvious straight away, but here we’re referring to certain days during the year when artists from one district all decide to open the doors to their galleries and studios, and let curious tourists poke their noses around.
This year, the artists from the association “Anvers aux Abbesses” are opening their doors for the general public from Friday November 15th (6pm-9pm) to November 17th (11am- 10pm). From painters and sculptors to photographers and embroiderers, all kinds of artistic genres are represented.
This will be the event’s 18th year, and the its popularity grows each time: 2013 will have 115 artists and 71 addresses open for your perusal. The area covered goes from Place de Clichy, up to Jules Joffrin, East to Barbes Rochechouart and down to Notre Dame de Lorette.
Get your walking shoes on!
You can download a map where all the addresses are shown, here, or you can simply pop over to the welcome point at 33 Avenue Trudaine (the 9th arrondissement) where helpful volunteers are always more than happy to answer questions and direct you. There’s also a collective exhibition called “Les Emiles” being held here, where artists will be showing pieces inspired by last year’s winner.
It’s a really fun day out where you get to meet talented artists from all over the world, specializing in different techniques. Every red dot you see on the map represents an artist who lives and works in the area, which is what makes it such a vibrant artists’ community.
It’s also a good opportunity to pick up a unique souvenir, as many of their pieces are for sale. But if you’re not looking to buy, don’t worry, the “Portes Ouvertes” event is completely free, and great for a family day exploring behind the scenes of Paris’ art world.
Just look for the red balloons!
If the idea of learning more about the Parisian art scene (past and present) interests you, have you thought about going on a guided tour around one of Paris’ Museums?
