After welcoming the Japanese contemporary artist Chiharu Shiota last winter, the Grand Palais once again spotlights contemporary art. The stunning monument, which faces the Petit Palais, is hosting an exhibition featuring two leading figures of French contemporary art: Claire Tabouret and Eva Jospin.
Over the course of more than three months, from December 10, 2025, to March 15, 2026, the works of these two renowned artists will engage in a captivating dialogue within Galleries 9 and 10.2 at the Grand Palais, showcasing a unique dual exhibition unlike any other.
Originally from Vaucluse, Claire Tabouret graduated from the École nationale supérieure des Beaux-Arts in 2006. The painter, now based in the United States for several years, has exhibited her work around the world. Today, major galleries and collectors are vying for her pieces, with highlights including the Villa Medici in Rome, the LACMA in Los Angeles, the Agnès b. Collection in Paris, and the Pinault Collection in Venice and Paris. Most recently, Claire Tabouret was selected by the Élysée and the Archdiocese of Paris to create the contemporary stained glass windows for Notre-Dame de Paris.
Meanwhile, Eva Jospin continues to showcase her work around the globe. A graduate of the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris in 2002 and a fellow at the French Academy in Rome—Villa Médicis—from 2016 to 2017, the multidisciplinary artist has recently exhibited her sculptures at the Orangerie at Versailles and at Galleria Continua in Paris.
The artist, daughter of former French Prime Minister Lionel Jospin, captivates contemporary art enthusiasts with her striking large-scale works and installations crafted entirely from cardboard. Undeterred, this talented sculptor has also made her mark on the facade of the Kremlin-Bicêtre train station (Line 14 of the metro), where she created a monumental bas-relief in cardboard and concrete.
On December 18, Eva Jospin was elected to chair 1 of the sculpture section of the Académie des Beaux-arts, a position previously held by sculptor Jean Cardot.
From December 10, 2025, to March 15, 2026, Claire Tabouret and Eva Jospin will showcase their impressive works in a must-see exhibition at the Grand Palais.
In Gallery 9 of the Grand Palais, Eva Jospin presents "Grottesco", a compelling installation comprising over fifteen works, some of which were specifically created for this exhibition and are being revealed to the public for the first time. The title "Grottesco" references a legend about a young Roman who accidentally falls into a hidden cavity. There, he uncovers stunning, long-forgotten frescoes: the remnants of Nero’s Domus Aurea, buried beneath the earth for centuries.
As we step into Gallery 9, we enter a quiet, otherworldly realm fueled by a vivid and mesmerizing imagination. Here, the natural world, architecture, and the fantastical intertwine, creating an immersive experience that is both captivating and enigmatic. The space blends promontories, cenotaphs, caves, ruins, forests, underwater landscapes, and intricately embroidered bas-reliefs—all woven together in a stunning tapestry of wonder.
Hanging on the wall or resting on the ground, small or monumental, Eva Jospin’s sculptures are truly striking. Predominantly crafted from cardboard, but also in bronze and embroidered materials, they command attention. As viewers look down at some, they find themselves tilting their heads to marvel at others, including the striking Cénotaphe. Eva Jospin even invites visitors to step inside one of her installations. Each piece reveals an incredible attention to detail, with intricate staircases, shells, and integrated lighting. The effort poured into creating these works is immense. It’s easy to imagine spending long, contemplative moments examining these unique sculptures in every fine detail.
Although the exhibition is housed within a single gallery at the Grand Palais, we strongly recommend taking your time to enjoy it fully. Each artwork reveals multiple layers and dimensions. The layout has been thoughtfully designed as a journey there and back: while the initial route emphasizes architectural grandeur, the return journey immerses visitors in a wild, natural landscape. With every turn, perceptions shift, and even subtle trompe-l'œil effects come into play, enhancing the experience in surprising ways.
Just across the way, another world unfolds — that of Claire Tabouret. Her exhibition "In a Single Breath" is on view in Gallery 10.2 within the iconic Parisian monument. Visitors can explore life-sized models, sketches, and various preparatory works for the six upcoming contemporary stained glass windows designed for Notre-Dame Cathedral.
At the Grand Palais, Claire Tabouret offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at this monumental and extraordinary project. Immediately catching the eye are six enormous scale models. Hung on the walls of gallery 10.2, they recreate a section of the south side aisle of the cathedral at life size (around 7 meters tall). Featuring vibrant, well-balanced colors, these models are crafted using monotype, a printing technique frequently employed by the artist.
Once again, the exhibition is housed within a single gallery space. However, visitors are encouraged to take a moment to sit on one of the benches provided, allowing themselves to fully absorb the array of artworks. "One Breath" offers a unique insight into the artist's creative process, as well as a glimpse into its historical significance. It’s worth noting that these upcoming stained glass windows are currently being crafted at the Simon-Marq Workshop in Reims, with plans for installation in the south aisle of Notre-Dame Cathedral’s nave by the end of 2026.
Dates and Opening Time
From December 10, 2025 to March 15, 2026
Location
Grand Palais
3 Avenue du Général Eisenhower
75008 Paris 8
Access
M° Champs-Elysées Clemenceau
Prices
Tarif réduit: €12
Plein tarif: €15
Official website
www.grandpalais.fr
More information
Galleries 9 and 10.2
