Unusual: an artist crafts a edible city to nibble within a Paris department store - photos

When art becomes edible, each building invites not only admiration but also indulgence. From February 18 to 21, 2026, artist Song Dong will craft a temporary city made of cookies, candies, and chocolates, on display at La Grande Épicerie in Paris. Visitors will have the chance to immerse themselves in this interactive, mouthwatering installation—a unique blend of creativity and culinary delight.

Here, you’re invited to look before you bite! From February 18 to 21, 2026, Paris opens its doors to a unique artistic and culinary experience with "Objets divers et variés – 百货 (bǎihuò)," an exhibition by Song Dong taking over the spaces of Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche.

Various and assorted objects: the free and immersive exhibition by Song Dong at Le Bon Marché — our photos
For its 11th edition, the January art showcase at Le Bon Marché Rive Gauche pays tribute to Song Dong, the renowned Chinese artist renowned for transforming everyday objects into living memory. From January 10 to February 22, 2026, his free exhibition, "Various and Diverse Objects – 百货 (baihuò)", takes over the store's showcases, features two large-scale installations beneath the glass roof, and immerses visitors in an interactive experience on the second floor. [Read more]

Alongside this free exhibition, Chinese artist Song Dong presents an extraordinary edible performance at La Table, inside La Grande Épicerie de Paris: "EATING THE CITY: EVERY DAY IS TOMORROW". Together with his team, Song Dong constructs a temporary cityscape entirely made of cookies, candies, and chocolates—a fragile, delicious metropolis that prompts reflection on our desires, consumption patterns, and the processes of creation and destruction.

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Initially, visitors can watch the construction of this sugary city for free from February 18 to 20, between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., witnessing the behind-the-scenes process—bite by bite—before tasting anything.

Then, on Saturday, February 21, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., the closing event offers a participatory tasting. Participants will collectively destroy and consume the artwork. Tickets cost €40 for adults, which includes a glass of champagne and the exhibition catalog, and must be reserved in advance. The event is free for children under 16, with a limit of two children per adult.

This is a sensory experience to observe, share… and savor—the art unfolding before your eyes, only to eventually break apart... into crumbs.