The Briefing Live from Paris: Art Basel comes to the French capital
Oct 23, 2025
In this discussion, Simon Bouvier, Monocle's Paris bureau chief and cultural policy expert, shares insights on how government instability affects the vibrant backdrop of Art Basel in Paris. Journalist Florence Biedemann dives into the implications of Macron’s postponed pension reform, revealing its potential impact on France’s political landscape. Together, they explore the intersection of art and politics, reflecting on how current tensions overshadow the art scene and the challenges of coalition-building in French governance.
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Venue Shapes Art Fair Success
- Art Basel Paris benefits from landmark venues like the Grand Palais, which elevate buyer experience and sales.
- Sophie Monaghan-Coombs and Aurelia Rauch say venue grandeur changes how collectors see and buy art.
Context Trumps A Tent
- Frieze's park tent in London lacks the grandeur of Paris venues, altering visitor experience and potentially sales.
- Sophie says institutional context and nearby museums give Paris a competitive edge over a tented fair.
State-Backed Cultural Strategy
- The French state is actively using cultural venues to project soft power and attract international collectors.
- Simon Bouvier notes this state-backed cultural strategy supplies storied buildings and momentum for events like Art Basel Paris.
