WHAT IS THIS PLACE? IS IT A SQUAT?
59 Rivoli is a building right in the heart of Paris that’s full of artist studios. There is a gallery on the ground floor that has a new exposition every 2 weeks and is a space that is for worldwide artists (not just those with studios in the building). In the beginning, 59 Rivoli was a squat that was started by artists looking for a place to work, live and exhibit. The artists opened it to the public 6 days a week. Having been purchased by the City of Paris, it is now a legal space, free and open to the public, that is integral to the cultural and art scene of the City of Light. Unlike a gallery where you only see a small amount of the artist’s work, at 59 Rivoli you get to truly enter into an artist’s universe where the work is actually created.
HOW LONG HAS IT BEEN HERE?
The artists took over the building on the 1st of November 1999. For the full history, click here:
IS IT OPEN TO ANYONE OR DO WE NEED A RESERVATION?
No reservations necessary. Come on in and wander around! The artists are friendly, don’t bite and are happy to explain their work with you. All ages are welcome as well. 59 Rivoli is very child friendly and kids of all ages enjoy their visit.
CAN I TAKE PICTURES?
Yes, in the common places like the entrance and the stairs and the Musée Igor Balut. In the artist studios, it depends entirely on the artists themselves. Some artists do not like photos being taken while others welcome them. It is best to ask first. If the artist has put up “Pas de Photo/No Photo” signs, please respect their wishes and do not take pictures.
HOW LONG CAN ARTISTS STAY?
There are 15 Permanent Artists. In addition, there are 15 Resident Artists who have a studio from 3 to 6 months. There are also Replacement Artists who come in for a small amount of time to replace an artist who has to travel for an exposition, vacation, etc. In this way, every visit you make, you will encounter something new.
DO THE ARTISTS LIVE HERE?
No. It is a place to work and exhibit but not to live.
IS IT THE ARTISTS WHO HAVE STUDIOS HERE WHO SHOW IN THE GALLERY?
No. The expositions come from far and wide to add to the mix of artwork at 59 Rivoli. The expositions change every 2 weeks and there is a show opening (vernissage) open to everyone usually on the first day of the show. To see the upcoming expositions and vernissages, please check the schedule here:
HOW OFTEN ARE THERE CONCERTS?
Every Saturday and Sunday starting at 6 p.m. there are free concerts in the gallery. The selection musical styles is completely eclectic. We also have 2 weekend-long festivals every year with concerts on all the floors as well as in the gallery.