Air de Paris Gallery Announces Closure After 36 Years
A Creative Chapter Concludes: Air de Paris Bids Farewell to the Art World
A Legacy's End: The Closure of a Storied French Gallery
Air de Paris, a distinguished art institution in France, is set to close its doors permanently and initiate bankruptcy proceedings, concluding a remarkable 36-year run. This significant development was confirmed by gallery co-founders Florence Bonnefous and Edouard Merino.
Financial Pressures and Personal Health: Factors Behind the Decision
According to Bonnefous, the gallery's financial obligations are limited to its landlord and bank, with no outstanding debts to the artists it represented. The decision to close stems from a combination of precarious financial health and the founders' personal well-being; Bonnefous is managing Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, and Merino also faces undisclosed health challenges.
Celebrating a Rich History: The Farewell Exhibition
The gallery's final exhibition, aptly named “Oh What a Time,” featured works by artists who have been integral to its journey, including Trisha Donnelly, Joseph Grigely, Pati Hill, and many others. Air de Paris was also instrumental in launching the careers of now-prominent figures like Liam Gillick, Carsten Höller, and Paul McCarthy.
Shifting Perspectives on the Art Market
Bonnefous candidly expressed a desire to disengage from the evolving dynamics of the contemporary art market. She noted that the gallery's longevity was, in itself, a surprising achievement given the market's trajectory.
Continued Engagement: Bonnefous's Future Plans
Looking ahead, Bonnefous plans to continue managing the estates of several artists, including Guy de Cointet and Dorothy Iannone, and intends to pursue curatorial work.
From Duchamp's Inspiration to a Global Presence
Established in 1990 in Nice and later relocating to Paris in 1994, then to Romainville in 2019, Air de Paris drew its name from a celebrated artwork by Marcel Duchamp. The gallery was a consistent participant in major international art events such as Art Basel and FIAC.
A Principled Stand: Withdrawal from Art Basel
Notably, a year prior to its closure announcement, Air de Paris made headlines for its withdrawal from Art Basel's 2025 Swiss edition. This action was taken in protest against changes to the fair's floor plan, which the gallery viewed as indicative of a growing corporate focus over artistic values, despite its long-standing participation and involvement in selection committees.