by Walking through Paris, you might think you’ve seen it all – the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the hustle and bustle of the Champs-Elysées. But there’s a secret side to Paris that only the most curious travelers uncover: its hidden art gems. These tucked-away spots offer a unique blend of creativity and history, allowing you to experience the City of Light differently.
Imagine stepping into 59 Rivoli Art Gallery, an art gallery on Rue Rivoli, and being greeted by a quirky facade made from papers, tubes, and plastic bags. This isn’t your typical museum. It’s an ever-changing canvas that pulls you into the vibrant world of local artists.
Or picture yourself wandering into the Fairground Museum, a whimsical world dedicated to 19th and 20th-century performing arts. Here, antique carousels and Belle-Epoque party supplies transport you back in time, away from the crowded streets and into a realm where art and memories mix effortlessly. Hidden spots like these make Paris more than just a city; they turn it into a living, breathing masterpiece waiting to be explored by those who dare to look beyond the surface.
Table of Contents
- Background of the Lasco Project
- Artistic Highlights
- Famed Art Collections and Museums
- Street Art and Alternative Spaces
- The Spirit of Montmartre
- Visitor Guide
- Navigating the City
- Discovering Hidden Gems
- Enjoying Parks and Nature
- Personal Experiences
- Find Things to Do in Paris
- Find Accommodation
- Explore Paris With Our Guides & Reviews
Background of the Lasco Project
Imagine wandering through the streets of Paris and stumbling upon a hidden world of art beneath the surface. The Lasco Project at Palais de Tokyo does just that.
Born in 2012, this initiative dives into the urban art scene in the heart of Paris. You’ll feel the pulse of the city’s artistic veins.
Location:
The Lasco Project transforms its subterranean passages deep within the Palais de Tokyo’s historic building. It’s a hidden gem waiting to be uncovered. Think of Montmartre’s spirit but tucked away underground.
Artists and Exhibitions:
Nearly 60 artists have contributed to the project. Renowned figures like Cleon Peterson and Futura 2000 bring brilliance to these secret walls. It’s Paris off the beaten path.
- Cleon Peterson: Known for his powerful murals.
- Craig Costello: Famous for his signature dripping style.
- Vhils and Dran: Urban legends who leave an indelible mark.
Connections to Paris:
The Lasco Project weaves modern street art with the rich history of the French Revolution and iconic locations like the Eiffel Tower. Picture the energy of the Montmartre Museum meeting contemporary expressions.
Why It Matters:
This isn’t just about art. It’s about discovery. It’s about seeing Paris from a new angle. Next time you’re in Paris, let the hidden art of the Lasco Project reveal a side of the city few ever see.
Embrace the adventure. Dive into the streets. Uncover art’s hidden depths.
See Related: Palais de Tokyo
Artistic Highlights
Explore Paris’s hidden treasures, from world-renowned art collections to vibrant street art and the bohemian spirit of Montmartre. Paris offers a rich variety of artistic experiences waiting to be discovered.
Famed Art Collections and Museums
Paris boasts some of the world’s most famous art collections. While the Louvre Museum and Musée d’Orsay are the highlights, many lesser-known gems exist.
The Louvre houses masterpieces like Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa and ancient artifacts. Its sprawling galleries can take days to explore. Nearby, the Musée d’Orsay captivates with works by Monet, Renoir, and Degas in a stunning former railway station.
Smaller museums like the Paris Sewer Museum and Atelier des Lumières provide unique experiences. Atelier des Lumières projects classical art in a modern, immersive setting, while the Sewer Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into underground Paris.
Street Art and Alternative Spaces
Beyond the traditional museums, Paris brims with vibrant street art and creative spaces. Wander through areas like Le Marais and discover colorful murals tucked away in alleys.
Street art here can be found on the facades of buildings, transforming public spaces into open-air galleries. Artists like Banksy and Invader have left their mark on the city’s walls.
For alternative art experiences, places like the Passage and Red Garden blend modern architecture with art installations. The ever-changing exhibits keep you on your toes and offer a refreshing break from the classic museum scene.
The Spirit of Montmartre
Montmartre is a vibrant, bohemian district steeped in artistic history. Rue Lepic and Rue de l’Abreuvoir are picturesque streets where you can trace the footsteps of famous artists like Picasso and Toulouse-Lautrec.
Visit the iconic Moulin Rouge and Moulin de la Galette to glimpse Montmartre’s cabaret history. The tranquil Montmartre Cemetery contrasts beautifully with the lively neighborhood, offering a peaceful stroll among ornate tombs.
Don’t miss the breathtaking views from the Sacré Coeur Basilica. Montmartre’s charm is not just in what you see but also in the spirit you feel as you wander its romantic streets.
Paris is a haven for art lovers, offering delights at every turn, whether through famed collections, street art, or the bohemian flair of Montmartre.
Visitor Guide
Exploring hidden art in Paris can take you to unexpected places and delightful hidden corners. Here’s how to navigate the city and discover these treasures.
Navigating Paris is an adventure in itself. Start by getting a comprehensive map. You can grab one from your hotel or a nearby tourist information center. This will help you navigate the city’s streets, like the bustling Rue Mouffetard and the serene Rue Cremieux.
Using the metro is the most efficient way to get around. Stations are well-marked, and the system covers the entire city. Consider taking a boat along the River Seine for a more scenic route. It’s a unique way to spot hidden art from a different angle.
Consider renting a bike, too. Paris has numerous bike lanes and paths. Cycling lets you effortlessly slip through crowded areas and get to those hidden spots quicker. And don’t forget to take breaks at local cafes to soak in the Parisian atmosphere.
Discovering Hidden Gems
Paris is filled with hidden gems waiting to be uncovered. Visit spots like the Fairground Museum, which houses fascinating carnival artifacts from the 19th and 20th centuries. Or visit 59 Rivoli Art Gallery for contemporary art in a quirky setting.
Explore the Passage des Panoramas with its historical charm and specialty shops. Don’t miss the romantic corners of Musée de Montmartre, nestled in the charming Montmartre district.
Hidden places like La Campagne à Paris, a village within the city, offer a peaceful retreat. The Petite Ceinture, an old railway turned green path, also provides unique exploration opportunities. For book lovers, the Abbey Bookshop on Rue de la Parcheminerie is a hidden gem not to be overlooked.
Enjoying Parks and Nature
Paris isn’t just about art and museums. The city offers beautiful parks and natural spots. Parc Monceau is a stunning park where you can relax amidst greenery and sculptures. The Jardin des Plantes is another great spot, featuring a botanical garden and natural history museum.
For more expansive green spaces, head to the Bois de Vincennes. Here, you can enjoy boating, picnicking, and even visit the Parc Zoologique de Paris. The smaller yet equally charming Parc des Buttes-Chaumont has steep hills, waterfalls, and hidden caves.
Take a stroll along the peaceful Île Aux Cygnes on the River Seine. This narrow man-made island offers a tranquil setting with lovely city views. Or, unwind at the Grande Mosquée de Paris garden, which offers serene pathways and a beautiful tea house for a relaxing afternoon.
See Related: Paris Street Art Tour: Where to Go for Hidden Murals and Graffiti
Personal Experiences
Exploring art in Paris feels like an adventure. Imagine stepping off the beaten path and finding hidden gems among the usual tourist spots. Paris isn’t just Eiffel Tower views.
You walk down narrow streets, and suddenly, there’s 59 Rivoli. The building is a living piece of art with its quirky facade of paper and plastic bags.
Another magical moment is at the Stravinsky Fountain. Sculptures dance with water, leaving you in awe, feeling like you’ve stumbled into a secret world.
Sitting quietly before Eglise Notre-Dame-de-Lorette, you get lost in its delicate beauty. It’s amazing how such places are tucked away, waiting for you to discover.
Then, there’s the Fairground Museum. Inside, you’re greeted with antique carousels and Belle-Epoque party supplies. You step back in time, experiencing a different kind of artistry.
Don’t miss L’Oasis D’Aboukir. A vertical garden surprises you with its burst of green, a hidden oasis in the city.
These places are like whispers of the city’s hidden stories, inviting you to be part of their narrative. Each visit leaves you feeling more connected and more in love with Paris.