By Colette Davidson
If you’ve ever walked by a packed Paris art gallery and been too intimidated to go in, Arty Thursdays is the event for you. Spinning off from the British “First Thursdays,” where some 150 galleries are open until 9pm every first Thursday of the month, Paris is doing a similar offer with its first edition on June 5th. Four times a year, from 6 to 10 pm, around 30 galleries will be open for viewing – mixing performances, DJ nights and meet-and-greets with artists.
Three young Parisian graduates from the prestigious Sciences Po are at the heart of the project, which should prove to be more intimate and sophisticated than the British version. Arty Thursdays will take participants through a winding trail of art, with visits to such galleries as Galerie Lazarew, Galerie Vincenz Sala, Galerie Fatiha Selam and Galerie Duboys. Never heard of them? You’re probably not the only one. One of the best parts of Arty Thursdays is that it allows you to enter these smaller, chic galleries without that lost, intimidated look. Think of this event as a personal guide for non-art aficionados.
Of course if you are an art snob yourself, this event won’t disappoint. With a setting like the Marais for the gallery hop, it’s sure to be a see-and-be-seen event. Imagine yourself holding a glass of bubbly, bopping into posh art galleries with your special events pass in hand. When do you get to feel this VIP?
If you’ve never been to the Marais, it is probably worth your while to pick up an “Arty Bag,” for 30 euros. Inside, you’ll have access to a guided tour, meal coupons and goodies to boot. If you’re a student, make sure to ask about a possible reduced price. The Arty Bag is recommended, not only for the cute tote you get to take home with you, but because the Marais is genuinely a very confusing neighborhood and you may not make it through the route on your own. However, if you’re looking to make your visit as inexpensive as possible, you can join Arty Thursdays for free – minus the Arty Bag.
So whether you’re already an art lover or have always wanted entry into the creative world, Arty Thursdays is a great place to start. What better way to experience one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Paris than with champagne and art?
For more information, visit their website (in French) or send an inquiry through their contact page.
Like the idea of being shown around the city? Try one of our tours to see even more great Paris neighborhoods.
