Sotheby's transformed a Parisian apartment into an art-filled dining space during Art Basel, blending fine art with culinary experiences.
Art Basel collaboration in Paris
During Art Basel, Sotheby's partnered with curator Valerio Polimeno to transform a private apartment on the rue de Rivoli into a unique space that combined contemporary art with a dining experience. The project, led by David Rothschild, Head of Contemporary Art at Sotheby's, aimed to bring art into a more intimate and social setting for a week.Design of the art-filled apartment
The apartment featured a bar with walls covered in Alexander Calder's paintings, leading to a dining room with small round café tables adorned with Sotheby's branding. The menu was inspired by artists such as Ed Ruscha, Fernand Léger, and Francis Bacon, blending food and art into a single experience.Art as a medium for connection
Valerio Polimeno emphasized the importance of art as a medium for connection and intimacy, stating that it remains a unique territory for self-discovery. He aimed to create a 'closed' space that encouraged dialogue between visitors, reminiscent of the social dynamics of Parisian restaurants in the past.Inspiration from iconic venues
The setting drew inspiration from iconic venues such as the Montana in Paris and the Four Seasons in New York, which were known for their artistic environments. Polimeno highlighted the need for absurdity and authenticity in art, criticizing a market that he feels has become too calculated and controlled.Paris's role in the global art scene
Polimeno noted that while the London market currently holds more financial power, Paris offers a unique energy and effervescence where creatives, designers, decorators, poets, and politicians converge. He expressed admiration for the Gustave Fayet exhibition at the Fondation Louis Vuitton, which showcased works by Cézanne, Matisse, Van Gogh, and Gauguin.
