Théo Mercier and Thomas Houseago: the two artists on show at Reiffers Art Initiatives – our photos

Following the pairings of Rashid Johnson and Kenny Dunkan (2021), Kehinde Wiley and Alexandre Diop (2022), Lorna Simpson and Gaëlle Choisne (2023), and Ugo Rondinone and Tarek Lakhrissi (2024), not to mention Daniel Buren & Miles Greenberg (2025), Reiffers Art Initiatives is showcasing two new artists as part of its Mentorship Program. From October 23 to December 12, 2026, the space in Paris’s 17th arrondissement opens its doors to two contemporary artists from different generations and backgrounds: British artist Thomas Houseago, who is based in Los Angeles, and French artist Théo Mercier.

The first artist, whose work blends sculpture and painting and centers on the human body, is a major figure on the international art scene. His most recent exhibition in Paris dates from 2019.

On his side, Théo Mercier has become a key figure on France’s contemporary art scene. With a practice that blends sculpture, installation, and theatrical staging, the artist has been mounting an ongoing string of exhibitions. He was a resident at the Villa Medici in 2013 and shortlisted for the Marcel Duchamp Prize in 2014.

This fall, the two artists are taking part in the sixth edition of Mentorat Reiffers Initiatives. The concept? Invite a leading international figure in contemporary art to mentor an artist from the French art scene. The months-long program culminates in a joint exhibition by the duo, held each fall at Reiffers Art Initiatives, on Rue des Acacias.

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From October 23 to December 12, 2026, each artist takes over a level of the Fondation to set up their own studio. The visit begins on the ground floor with an installation by Théo Mercier. Through a collection of structures housing antique or found objects, alongside sculptures in progress or completed, the artist gives form to a mental map. Here, the objects tell stories while the sculptures reshape the space. By inviting visitors to walk through his installation, Théo Mercier invites them to step inside his mind and studio.

For his part, Thomas Houseago transforms the space tucked beneath the glass roof into a true artist’s studio and creative workshop. For several weeks, the British artist took over the Foundation’s first floor, turning Reiffers Art Initiatives into a fully fledged studio.

Revealing the artist’s studies, as well as his obsessions with death and owls, the exhibition immerses us in Thomas Houseago’s private world and creative process. And don’t forget to admire the British sculptor’s monumental bronze owl, installed in the Foundation’s inner courtyard.

Whether you’re simply curious or a contemporary art lover passing through the Ternes district, don’t hesitate to stop by Reiffers Art Initiatives before December 12. Admission is free. The ground-floor space dedicated to Théo Mercier is quick to visit. Upstairs, however, you may find yourself spending a little longer exploring every detail of the fascinating studio of Thomas Houseago.