An ambitious and colossal project is about to see the light of day in Paris. The former Gare des Invalides and the basement of the esplanade will house a museum-school dedicated to Alberto Giacometti. This was announced by the Fondation Giacometti on its website. The project was originally scheduled to open to the public in 2026. Contacted by us, the foundation informed us that the new museum should finally see the light of day in 2028.
In concrete terms, this new kind of institution - covering an area of 6,000 m² - will unveil not only a museum featuring an impressive heritage collection byAlberto Giacometti, but also multidisciplinary exhibition spaces and a creative school.
In detail, this Giacometti museum will become the world's largest collection dedicated to the artist, featuring some 10,000 works. Fans of the Swiss sculptor and painter will be able to discover a permanent selection of several hundred of his works, featuring sculptures in plaster and bronze, as well as paintings, drawings and decorative art objects.
Another not-to-be-missed area in this future cultural and artistic venue? Alberto Giacometti's studio, where visitors can immerse themselves in the artist's creative process. Visitors will also be able to immerse themselves in Alberto Giacometti's life and work, thanks to the Foundation's archives, library and iconotheque, accessible for the occasion.
Other modern and contemporary artists will also be able to showcase their work in dedicated exhibition rooms.
Finally, this new-style institution will host a creative school for all, where"an original approach to art based on studio spirit and creativity" will be given pride of place.
To enhance this totally unique site, the Giacometti Museum & School will unveil a green courtyard, a café, restaurants, a bookshop and a concept store.
As part of the City of Paris' " Réinventer Paris 2 " program, this project " will be dedicated to the encounter between the public, artists and various creative expressions ", as the dedicated website states.
To create the Musée & École Giacometti, the historic building of the former Gare des Invalides and its underground annexes are to be completely renovated. The transformation of this legendary Paris landmark was entrusted to architect Dominique Perrault, accompanied by heritage architect Pierre-Antoine Gatier and landscape architect Louis Benech.
Official website
www.fondation-giacometti.fr
