In a strategic rebranding move, Art Basel has renamed its French fair from “Art Basel Paris” to “Paris+, by Art Basel”. This change reflects the fair’s ambition to integrate more deeply with Paris’s rich cultural landscape while emphasizing the city’s unique identity.
Background and Reasoning
The decision to rename the fair stems from feedback during the planning stages. Art Basel’s leadership, including Marc Spiegler, highlighted the importance of placing Paris at the forefront of the fair’s identity. When Art Basel was invited to occupy the prestigious October slot at the Grand Palais, historically held by FIAC since 1975, organizers were advised that a name like “Art Basel Paris” would not resonate with the local cultural scene. Instead, “Paris+” was chosen for its minimalist appeal and versatility across different languages and collaborative contexts (Artnet, Art Basel).
The Inaugural Event
Paris+, by Art Basel, will debut at the Grand Palais Éphémère, a temporary venue until the historic Grand Palais completes its renovations. The event is scheduled for October 20-23, 2022, with a VIP preview on October 19. This edition aims to showcase the vibrant French art scene through a diverse lineup of 154 galleries from 33 countries, including new and returning exhibitors (Art Basel).
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Leadership and Vision
The fair will be led by Clément Delépine, a seasoned director familiar with the French art market, and will include a robust team of art professionals. This includes Jennifer Flay, former director of FIAC, who will join as president of the advisory board next year. The leadership team emphasizes continuity and innovation, aiming to foster connections with Paris’s fashion and design industries, further enhancing the city’s cultural dynamism (Artnet, Art Basel).
Conclusion
The renaming to Paris+, by Art Basel, represents more than just a branding change; it signals a commitment to honoring and enhancing the cultural significance of Paris within the global art market. As the fair approaches, the art world eagerly anticipates how this reimagined event will influence both the local and international art scenes.
For more information on the upcoming fair and its participants, visit Art Basel and Artnet News.
