In Paris this month or next? Be sure to visit these top exhibitions by artists like Takashi Murakami, Karel Appel, Oda Jaune, and more.
Takashi Murakami: Baka
Perrotin
Now—December 21
Presented at Perrotin’s Salle de Bal location is an exhibition of around 20 works by Takashi Murakami including new creations and pieces dating back to the 1990s. In the main room, Murakami’s Mr. DOB takes the stage, seen in six new portraits of the iconic character and a five-foot sculpture, accompanied by a pair of humorous caricature-style self-portraits of the artist. The exhibition also features the debut of Devil Ko² (the latest installation in the artist’s series of over-sexualized life-sized manga sculptures) and a selection of other works like reinterpretations of Murakami’s flower motif, the “Panda Flower Ball” series, and his recent series of “Fish Paintings.”
Oda Jaune: Beyond Gravity
Galerie Templon
Now—December 21
Oda Jaune’s exhibition “Beyond Gravity” at Galerie Templon gives physical form to questions like, “Why are humans never satisfied with what they are?” or “What is it that underpins human freedom?” The artist’s mutant figures morph from one body part to the next, floating in settings reminiscent of Renaissance paintings, as Jaune observes the human being, along with topics like its evolution, willingness to experiment, and urge to push the boundaries of the body. Only for the month of November, the 14 works on view will be turned upside down in order to offer new narratives and perspectives.
Karel Appel
Almine Rech Paris
Closed November 16
Almine Rech’s first monographic exhibition of the late Karel Appel closed Saturday. Considered one of the most important Dutch artists of the second half of the 20th century Appel, in fact, relocated to Paris in 1950. Through the exhibition, viewers will gain knowledge of the artist’s career development and formative years, with a special focus on the figure and the landscape—two recurring themes throughout Appel’s work.
“Dark Shadows”
Saint Laurent Rive Droite
Now—December 20
Designed as a unique concept space for intermingling the worlds of art and fashion, Saint Laurent’s Rive Droite location debuted its first exhibition, “Dark Shadows,” last month just in time for FIAC. Curated by Anthony Vaccarello, the presentation features a selection of artworks, photographs, and sculptures, all in tune with the boutique’s distinctive black and white aesthetic. Guests at Rive Droite can expect to find works like a selection of Polaroids by Robert Mapplethorpe, Ed Ruscha’s Omaha to New York, Richard Serra and Head by Alberto Giacometti, and Sterling Ruby’s Vampire 118 presented throughout the store and intermingled with the house’s latest collections.
“Art in Resonance”
The Peninsula Paris
Closed November 15
Last week was the last chance to experience The Peninsula Paris’ latest “Art in Resonance” exhibition, featuring works by Saya Woolfalk, Elise Morin, and Iván Navarro. Debuted last March, the initiative goes above and beyond the typical programming of art found in hotels as a way to support mid-career and emerging artists. In this installation, viewers will find Woolfalk’s Visionary Reality Portal, which uses projection mapping technology to create a stained glass effect; Morin’s SOLI, highlighting the life cycle of man-made objects and their burden on the planet; and HOME by Navarro, which creates a sensorial and psychological experience by playing with optical illusions.