"Modern and contemporary art in Paris" a Paris Travel Page by facet

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Eiffel Tower seen from the Place de la Concorde

Art in Paris

Paris, city of light. What can be said that hasn't been said a thousand times before ? I recently returned from my third trip to Paris (October 2006), and as was the case on my first two visits to Paris, I ended up spending most of my time in art museums. I'll be the first to admit that I am no artist, and I have never studied art, but I have always appreciated and enjoyed art.

Paris is home to five of my six favourite art museums (the sixth being the Museum of Modern Art in New York). My favourite has always been the Musée de l'Orangerie, home to the hauntingly beautiful water lily (Nymphéas) murals by Monet. This is also where I saw my first Modigliani painting, and I have been in love with the Italian painter's work ever since. It also houses some lovely paintings by Cézanne, Picasso, Derain and Renoir. The museum has recently reopened after being closed for renovation for more than six years. The layout and lighting have been vastly improved.

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Rodin Museum

More art in Paris

My first visit to the Rodin Museum was an absolute joy. The sculptures are magnificent and the gardens a haven of peace and tranquility in the middle of Paris.

When in Paris I also never miss the Musée d'Orsay with its wonderful impressionist and post-impressionist collections, including works by Van Gogh, Renoir, Degas and Cézanne (another favourite of mine).

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Montmartre

Still more art in Paris

Then there is the Centre Pompidou for paintings by Modigliani, Kandinsky, Klee, Picasso and Matisse, and the Musée Picasso. One of my favourite Cézanne paintings is housed in the Picasso museum, since it formed part of Picasso's private collection. Yes, yes, I know about the Louvre. Been there, done that. I saw the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. I may go back one day, but only once I've grown tired of the other five museums. Is that likely to happen ? I think not.