Best Contemporary Art in Paris

Originally belonging to New York, the Paris branch of Marian Goodman Gallery was established in 1995. It showcases a variety of contemporary pieces of art that are created by artists like Chantal Akerman, Giovanni Anselmo, Marsel Broodthaers and William Kentridge. Owner Marian Goodman has been in this business of selling art since the 1960s. She is well reputed for her eye for detail that is clearly seen in the masterpieces that adorn the walls of her exhibition space.

The Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris opened its doors for the first time in 1937. Since then, the museum has been dedicated to modern art (from the 1960s on). Its permanent exhibition, which is free, houses over 8000 works, among them you will find Picasso, Braque, Picabia, Delaunay, Klein and many others. The Musée d'Art Moderne is situated in the left wing of the Palais de Tokyo, an Art Deco-styled building, which is also an art hub not to be missed! Temporary exhibitions run every six weeks with nominal admission fees. There is also a café, bookshop and various concerts that take place here.

Also known as the Museum of Modern Art, this museum consists primarily of two sections. It has an unmatchable selection of work from the early 20th Century. The impressive list of artists includes Vlaminck, Zadkine, Picasso and Braque. Check out the division, which highlights the story of electricity. Works by contemporary and experimental artists are also displayed here. There's a division devoted to music and photography. Once you're done touring the museum, be sure to stop by the book store.

For a twist to the usual contemporary paintings, head to Air de Paris where the specimens belong to various experimental genres that at one pique one's interest with their unique designs and concepts. The artists featured here are from all parts of the world, lending their individual experience in creating a variety treat for the client. A few note-worthy names include Carsten Hölle, Sarah Morris and Jean-Luc Verna.

Born in Spain, Pablo Picasso (1881-1973) settled in France after fleeing from Franco's régime. Even though he rarely returned to his native country, most of his paintings reflect his Andalusian origins. On the painter's death, his descendants left many of his works to the French state to pay for death duties. It is partly thanks to these works that the museum was founded in the Hôtel Salé, originally designed by the architect Jean Boullier in 1656 for Aubert Fontenay, a collector specializing in the salt tax. Inside the museum, visitors follow the style changes of the great master and admire the creations from his blue, pink, and cubist periods.

The glass and steel building, designed by the architect Jean Nouvel, that houses the Foundation Cartier, accurately reflects the specific concept of this museum. Created in 1984, this Foundation helps contemporary artists by promoting their works and exhibits a variety of works from paintings to videos to sculptures. The famous fashion designer Issey Myiake, whose work has sometimes been controversial, is one of the great names exhibited.

A renowned place for purchasing fine specimens of contemporary art, Galerie Perrotin was established in 1990. The two-story structure holds exhibitions and deals in works of famous artists like Takashi Murakami, Xavier Veilhan, Bernard Frize and Bharti Kher. The gallery has a branch in Hong Kong too. Drop by here to pick up some rare creations that will adorn and beautify your home or office.

Gilles Dyan first established Opera Gallery in Singapore in 1994. What started as the vision of one man is now a team of passionate and dedicated art lovers with an eye for good work. The gallery has its presence in all cities considered the mecca of art like Paris, London, Hong Kong, Miami and New York. Located in the heart of the city, the Paris branch is a two storied tribute to art. The art displayed here ranges from internationally recognized greats like Picasso, Dali and Chagall to amateur works and other artifacts including sculptures and lithographs. If you want to pick up a valuable art piece, the gallery has experts to guide you according to your likings, artistic inclinations and budget.

Said to be the biggest contemporary art gallery in the city, Galerie Xippas is noted for its fine works of art that are carefully selected by the owner and dealer Xippas. It is tucked away in the 3rd Arrondisement of Paris. Regular exhibitions take place here. The artists that are patronized include the likes of Valerie Jouve, Vera Lutter, Phjilippe Ramette and Dan Walsh.

This world-famous auction house now has a branch in Paris. Furniture, silver, ceramics, and ancient art are auctioned here and buyers come from all over the world. With over 300 years of experience, Christie's has turned auctioning into a sophisticated art. Their auctions still continue to create history, as rare and beautiful masterpieces are perpetually sold. Visit an auction, and if your pockets allow it, pick up a rare treasure to cherish forever. Check the website for more details and auction dates.