Monaco’s artistic star shines brightly

From prestigious art shows to world-class exhibitions, the Principality is set to be transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation. Come and discover exceptional works of art in this glamorous, sun-kissed corner of the Mediterranean. Prepare for an unforgettable artistic experience in Monaco.

• • The Rainier III Sculpture Trail: Monaco has an incredible collection of sculptures on public display, and the Sculpture Trail is the perfect way to admire them! In total, there are more than 150 exceptional artworks by the likes of Botero, Folon, and Kapoor to be discovered in the Principality, by following a trail that covers the whole country, from Fontvieille to Larvotto via Monaco’s Old Town.

• Hauser & Wirth: The contemporary art gallery at the One Monte-Carlo complex is hosting an exhibition of 1970s architectural works by Larry Bell called “Murs Debout” (from 4 June to 31 August).

• Exhibitions at the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco (NMNM): This summer, the NMNM is staging two landmark exhibitions:

- "Miquel Barcelo, Oceanographer" at the Villa Paloma (from 7 June to 13 October): This exhibition features around sixty eclectic works of art (paintings, ceramics, embroidery, works on paper) from the prolific Miquel Barceló, a Spanish artist whose favourite theme is the sea.

- "Pasolini in Chiaroscuro" at the Villa Sauber (until 29 September):
This exhibition is a tribute to Pier Paolo Pasolini, one of the Europe’s leading intellectuals. Half a century after his death, the world-renowned polymath’s influence continues to be felt in a multitude of fields, inspiring contemporary creators. The exhibition looks at the influence of classical and contemporary art on the aesthetics of his films. Part of the exhibition also features works by several international artsist in homage to Pasolini.

• "Art in motion" at Espace 22 from 12 June to 10 July: Art in Motion is a revolutionary concept created by Najette Derni @madame.helmet. Taking inspiration from the principles espoused by Vitrivius, the exhibition seeks to blend structural integrity and opulence (Firmitas), elegant functionality (Utilitas), and unrivalled sophistication (Venustas). Explore a world where every piece is a symphony of style.

• Monaco Art Week: The 6th Monaco Art Week (MAW), under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco, will take place from 2 to 7 July in various iconic districts around the Principality. This year, some 21 art galleries and auction houses are joining forces for a week of events and exhibitions to create an “art journey”, where members of the public, art lovers, collectors, and professionals can come together for a shared art experience.

The association Monaco Art Week was founded in 2018, inspired by Laura De Jonckheere’s idea of bringing together Monaco’s different cultural institutions with a series of events designed to showcase the local art scene. What makes MAW unique is the search for resonance, the desire to cultivate a conversation between the different periods in the history of art: classical, modern, and contemporary. 

Visitors can admire art in all its forms, from sculpture to painting and jewellery, with Walking Art Tours through the Principality. Each art gallery and auction house will be hosting a new exhibition showcasing their discipline, history, and artists, building cultural bridges and opening up the art world to the wider community with round tables led by international experts. At the same time, the Grimaldi Forum Monaco will be hosting the modern and contemporary art fair artmonte-carlo, strengthening Monaco’s reputation as an essential art destination.

• Artmonte-carlo: On 6 and 7 July 2024, the prestigious salon d’art artmonte-carlo will be celebrating its eighth anniversary at the Grimaldi Forum, under the High Patronage of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco. The event positions the Riviera as a leading platform for contemporary and modern art and design, atracting art collectors and enthusiasts in large numbers.
  With an elite selected of international galleries and special exhibitions, artmonte-carlo is among the most exclusive events of its kind. The Prix Solo artmonte-carlo – F.P.Journe, awarded to the best exhibition, sees the winning artwork purchased and donated to the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco (NMNM). Held at the same time as the exhibition “Turner, the Sublime Legacy”, artmonte-carlo is not confined to the Grimaldi Forum - there will also be a unique exhibition on a yacht moored in the port of Monaco.

• • The Grimaldi Forum Monaco’s summer exhibition devoted to painter William Turner: After showcasing Claude Monet’s paintings and his work with light last year, the Grimaldi Forum’s will be turning its attention to Wiliam Turner this summer with a major exhibition entitled “Turner, the Sublime Legacy”, running from 6 July to 1 September. Around forty of the artist’s watercolours and oils on canvas will be on display, along with other works by contemporary artists, highlighting the English painter’s influence on the use of light and atmosphere.

• • Monte-Carlo Gems at the Hôtel Fairmont Monte-Carlo (from 19 to 22 July): The prestigious luxury jewellery show is a must for enthusiasts and collectors of precious gems, jewels and watches, organised by the biggest names in the industry. Join the exclusive community of connoisseurs and marvel at the breathtaking creations by the world’s foremost jewellers.

• • Art3F, international contemporary art fair at the Chapiteau de Fontvieille (from 23 to 25 August): Art3f is shaking up the world of contemporary art fairs by putting the emphasis on human contact, in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.  There are no preconceptions and no barriers here. art3f is a wonderful mix of popular art, affordable art, and the latest art trends. The fair is a chance to make acquaintance with the artists chosen by the event’s selection committee, and discover emerging new talents. Displaying their creations will be numerous painters, sculptors, and photographers,  from up-and-coming younger artists to veterans.

As you can see, Monaco is an essential destination for art lovers.