59 Rivoli


59 Rivoli is an art gallery in Paris that the city legally transformed from the previous artist squat that occupied the space since 1999. The venue became known for its parties, exhibitions, and performances. In 2006, Parisian city officials began to renovate after purchasing the space, and they opened in 2009 with art studios for 30 artists. The contemporary art gallery now sees 70,000 visitors per year. Artists display and sell works of various media, including paintings, sculptures, and electronic art. In the artist community in Paris, people debate whether the formally established art galleries provide more opportunities for the artists who work there or inhibit the artistic process.

History

In 1999, a group of artists took over a space in a former bank that had been abandoned for 15 years. Gaspard Delanoë, along with two other artists, originally founded 59 Rivoli.

Conversion to a legal establishment

After years of illegal squatting in the art center, the city of Paris considered evicting the tenants. City officials discovered in 2001 that more than 40,000 people were visiting 59 Rivoli per year, and it was the third most-visited center or museum for contemporary art in the city. Paris city hall bought the building to convert it to a legal space for art studios and tourism. 59 Rivoli was the first conversion to a legal establishment by the ministry in Paris, but the project has continued since 2006.

Location and architecture

The building at 59 Rivoli was formerly a branch of the Crédit Lyonnais bank. It was abandoned for 15 years before artists took over the six-storey space and began exhibiting art and hosting parties. The building is from the Hausmannian period of urban renewal and growth in the mid-1800s.
The 6 spiral staircase in the middle of the building climbs 6 floors, surrounded by brightly colored murals on the walls and floors.