Experiencing Salon International d’art Contemporain Paris – October 2024

The Salon International d’Art Contemporain (SIAC) in Paris, often simply called the Salon d’Art Contemporain, is one of the city’s most significant and eagerly awaited contemporary art fairs, held annually in the heart of Paris, France. This event has gained international prestige, drawing together an impressive and diverse community of artists, collectors, gallery representatives, art dealers, critics, and art enthusiasts from across the globe. The fair is a vibrant celebration of contemporary art in all its forms, offering a rare opportunity for visitors to experience a global spectrum of creativity under one roof.

At SIAC, artists from both established and emerging backgrounds are invited to display their work, which spans a wide variety of mediums. From traditional forms like painting and sculpture to avant-garde installations, multimedia, and digital art, the Salon reflects the incredible breadth and depth of contemporary artistic expression. This inclusivity in artistic forms not only reflects the dynamic and evolving landscape of contemporary art but also enables the fair to cater to an array of artistic tastes and interests.

Here are some key details about the fair:

1. Focus and Exhibitors

• The Salon International d’Art Contemporain primarily focuses on modern and contemporary art, offering a platform for both emerging and established artists.
• It attracts a diverse range of exhibitors, including painters, sculptors, photographers, and installation artists.
• The fair allows artists and galleries to display new works, many of which explore current global themes and innovative techniques.

2. Event Location

• The event takes place in prestigious Parisian venues, often in spaces that highlight the beauty and history of Paris, such as the Porte de Versailles exhibition center or the Carrousel du Louvre (held here this time of they year).

3. Audience and Cultural Influence

• SIAC draws art collectors, curators, critics, and general art lovers, making it a vital cultural event in Paris.
• The fair fosters cross-cultural exchange, as it invites artists and audiences from diverse backgrounds to contribute to the Parisian art scene, renowned for its historical significance and ongoing innovation.

4. Supporting Artists and Promoting Art Accessibility

• Unlike many other art fairs that focus heavily on sales and gallery representation, SIAC often emphasizes accessibility for artists without gallery representation. This allows a broader spectrum of artistic voices to participate.
• This approach provides independent artists a rare opportunity to exhibit their work and connect directly with art enthusiasts and collectors.

5. Additional Features

• Besides exhibitions, SIAC often includes live art demonstrations, discussions, workshops, and other interactive events designed to engage visitors.
• Panel discussions and artist talks offer deeper insights into the contemporary art market, current trends, and the social issues reflected in the artworks.

Isang Lahi Para sa Sining at Kultura

“Isang Lahi Para sa Sining at Kultura” is an exhibition curated by Norlie Meimban in collaboration with the sige! art network, designed to showcase the beauty, diversity, and richness of Filipino heritage through art. The exhibit was strategically timed to coincide with the SIAC in Paris. Through this collection, the artists present a powerful collective statement on Filipino identity, resilience, and artistry, capturing the spirit of “Isang Lahi” (One Nation) and bringing it to a global stage.

“Isang Lahi Para sa Sining at Kultura” follows the success of two previous exhibitions, Isang Guhit and Isang Hagod, which were held in Vienna the month prior. Both these shows served as precursors to the Paris exhibit, establishing a thematic continuity and exploration of Filipino culture through art. Isang Guhit (One Line) celebrated the Filipino artist’s ability to convey profound meaning through one’s art work when beginning with a single line. Meanwhile, Isang Hagod (One Stroke) paid homage to the emotions of what one brushwork and the expressive qualities that single, deliberate strokes can embody.

Together, these two prior exhibits in Vienna laid the conceptual foundation for “Isang Lahi Para sa Sining at Kultura,” emphasizing the unique essence of Filipino art forms and how they represent the collective soul of the Filipino people. By advancing this narrative into Paris, Norlie Meimban and sige! created an opportunity to introduce the world to the evolution and growth of Filipino contemporary art, inviting a broader audience to engage with the Filipino identity and its representation in modern visual art.

Exhibiting artists for “Isang Lahi Para sa Sining at Kultura” included:

Louie Ignacio – celebrated for his joyful and vibrant approach to landscape abstraction, bringing scenes to life with an infectious sense of optimism and energy. His works displayed were dominated by bright, lively colors that seem to dance across the canvas, capturing the spirit and warmth of a landscape in a way that feels both timeless and modern. Ignacio’s use of gold accented throughout his pieces added a layer of elegance and richness, elevating his landscapes into something beyond mere depictions of nature. These hints of gold caught the light and bring an ethereal quality to the landscapes, as if the scenes were touched by a golden sunrise or sunset glow.

Harold Khan – Still part of his Reyna Series, Khan’s portraits are a tribute to the strength and grace of women, presented through his finely detailed and evocative portraiture. In this series, Khan focuses on women portrayed as queens (reynas in Filipino) in classic and modern interpretations, embodying qualities of regality, resilience, and beauty. Each piece is intricately crafted, with careful attention given to capturing the subtle nuances of expression, posture, and spirit that make each subject unique. Through his portraits, Khan seeks to highlight the queenly essence inherent in all women, using both traditional and modern elements to bring out the timeless quality of feminine power and dignity.

The Reyna Series stands out for its rich details and expressive depth. Khan employs a range of color palettes in his compositions, balancing softness with intensity to reflect the multifaceted nature of his subjects – in this piece, pink, femininity, and poise.

Arnel Garcia – Arnel Garcia’s abstract works are a compelling study in minimalism and intensity, marked by grays and minimal striking colors.  In his displayed piece, a palette of grays is punctuated by occasional red accents. His compositions focus primarily on shades of gray, which he uses to create a layered, textured effect that feels both refined and raw. This restrained color scheme allows Garcia to explore themes of duality, balance, and subtle emotional states, making his work deeply introspective. The red sprinkles in his pieces serve as visual focal points, capturing the viewer’s eye and adding an unexpected element of intensity to the otherwise muted scenes.

Charmaine Taus – is an abstract artist who excels at translating movement and emotion into bold compositions that feel both dynamic and introspective. Her works on display were characterized by flowing lines, bold color contrasts, and a sense of fluidity that makes the pieces feel alive, as if they were constantly shifting and evolving. Taus used her abstract approach to explore the depths of emotion, capturing fleeting moments of joy, tension, and reflection in ways that transcend traditional representation. Her pieces invite viewers to experience her emotions as she paints, leaving interpretation open-ended so that each person can find their own meaning within the work.

Taus’s technique combines elements of abstraction with a strong sense of form and structure, allowing her compositions to feel grounded even as they push the boundaries of conventional shapes and patterns.

Valen Valero – Valero’s abstract paintings on display were explorations of symbolism, incorporating writings, numbers, letters, and hidden codes that draw the viewer in with an air of mystery. These elements create layers of meaning within each piece, inviting the audience to decipher the subtle messages and puzzles she embeds in her work. The symbols and codes are not only visually striking but also add an intellectual dimension, challenging viewers to interpret the possible significance of each mark.

Rey Aurelio – traditionally known for his monochromatic portraits, Aurelio steps into new territory with his latest work, which introduces subtle hues. His portrait of a toddler captures the innocence and vulnerability of early childhood, with a delicate application of color bringing warmth to his typically somber, grayscale palette. Known for his mastery of shading and light, Aurelio’s first move to incorporating color is a touching evolution, adding a layer of tenderness and life to his already expressive style. The addition of color enhances the emotional depth of the piece, drawing the viewer’s attention to the softness and purity of the subject’s gaze.

Dr. Ronnie Lim – his animal portraits are meticulously detailed and realistic, showcasing his deep respect and admiration for the natural world. His pieces of tiger portraits for Isang Lahi Para sa Sining at Kultura captured the fierce intensity and raw power of these majestic creatures, highlighting every stripe, whisker, and muscle with an almost photographic precision. Lim’s artistry lies not only in technical accuracy but also in his ability to convey the essence of his subjects, capturing both the grace and ferocity that define the tiger’s nature. His choice to focus on tigers reflects a dedication to the conservation of endangered species, as well as an artistic commitment to portraying the beauty of nature’s most iconic creatures.

Addie Cukingnan – Addie Cukingnan’s floral artworks are a celebration of nature’s vibrancy, with each piece bursting with color, texture, and vitality. Her paintings depict flowers in full bloom, radiating energy and life in a way that feels almost tangible. Through bold color choices and dynamic brushwork, Cukingnan captures the beauty of flowers as symbols of growth, renewal, and joy. Her technique involves layering colors and textures to create a sense of depth, making each petal and leaf appear alive and pulsating with energy.

Noel Nicolas – Nicolas’ abstract piece on display is atmospheric, layered with texture, and truly colorful. His approach combines color, depth, and form to create compositions that feel open-ended, encouraging viewers to immerse themselves in the work and derive personal meaning from it. Nicolas’s art often employs subtle gradations of color that transition seamlessly, creating a sense of flow and movement across the canvas. His textured surfaces invite the viewer to experience the artwork not just visually, but almost perceptibly, allowing for sensations that go beyond what can be seen.

This Excited Artist

I had barely stepped into the vast hall of the Salon International d’Art Contemporain at the Carrousel du Louvre, and I was already overwhelmed by excitement. The event felt like the art world’s most vibrant gathering, a grand convergence of color, texture, and creativity from every corner of the globe. It was my first time attending this exhibition in Paris, and I was determined to experience everything, speak to everyone, and soak up every story and insight behind these incredible works. I was there to support hubby who is also exhibiting one of his.

Day 1: First Impressions and Exciting Encounters

Walking into the Carrousel, I could already feel the energy buzzing around. The atmosphere was nothing short of electric, with artists and curators busy putting and filling up their booths. Art enthusiasts like me (I wouldn’t really know who’s who) were eagerly moving from booth to booth, each space brimming with personality and stories. My first stop was the booth were hubby’s art would be, stayed a bit – but I wandered through the booth beside. The pieces look familiar, colorful, cartoonish but I was sure it’s Japanese art, so  like moth to a flame I went aimlessly.  I was approached by the organizer as they are still setting up so it wasn’t as safe and of course, not as organized. Sure enough, she’s Japanese and the booth(s) are for both Japan-based artists and Japanese in France promoting their  thought-provoking pieces. If you’ve been reading through this blog or the kids’ blog, you know how we love everything Japanese and that we often feature their food, TV series, movies, and animes. (Related read : We love the One Piece Live Action movie, this awesome One Piece Wall Painting by Hubby, here’s every Pocky we’ve tried!)

I was nervous but eager, practicing the few Japanese phrases I knew in my head: Konnichiwa! I walked over and greeted her, sharing a shy, “Hajimemashite!” (Nice to meet you). Her eyes lit up, and we quickly switched to English. From the few pieces I saw waiting to be displayed, I already have favorites. It wasn’t until the next day though that hubby and I got to meet the artists.

Moving on, I met artists from countries I’d never even dreamed I’d get to connect with. I stopped by a Portuguese artist’s sculptures – colorful bustiers in different “cuts”. I thought she was Spanish at first, so I introduced myself and we both laughed when we realized we both speak limited Spanish so we switched to English. Angelina Maia‘s sculptures are so intricate, you wouldn’t even think what medium they’re made of. I think my jaw dropped when she said, “It’s cardboard.”

The delicate structure and lifelike quality were so striking that the notion of them being made from something as humble as cardboard was simply awesome. It was a reminder of the transformative power of creativity and skill, how an artist can take the simplest of materials and elevate it into something extraordinary. It’s also very timely as October is breast cancer awareness month.

The opportunity to meet Ambassador Junever Mahilum-West, the Philippine Ambassador to France, was an unexpected feature of my day at the exhibit. She was gracious and approachable, exuding the poise and warmth one would expect from a diplomat, but what struck me most was discovering her passion for art. Ambassador Mahilum-West’s love for art shone through as she described her process of capturing the beauty in everyday objects, from fruits and flowers to a simplistic table setting. It was fascinating to hear how her dual roles as an artist and a diplomat intertwined. Art was a way to connect with people on a personal level, breaking barriers and creating conversations that went beyond politics or formalities.

Heather Lynn, an American artist, had an inviting display of intricate 3D wall sculptures that shimmered with light and texture. As I moved closer, I noticed the delicate forms of flowers crafted from crystal and glass, their petals catching and refracting the light in mesmerizing ways. These weren’t just stunning works of art—they were part of her Love Soaked series, a collection born from an extraordinary personal story.

Heather shared that the flowers in her sculptures were originally created for her daughter’s wedding.Her use of recycled glass and crystal added another layer of meaning. Not only were her pieces environmentally conscious, but they also embodied the idea of giving something old new life—a fitting metaphor for the enduring nature of love.

It was impossible to miss Georgi Melikidze’s whimsical art at the exhibit. His pieces were like stepping into a dreamscape, filled with quirky characters, surreal elements, and bursts of color that felt as though they were plucked from a fairytale. As I wandered through his corner, marveling at his work, I noticed a warm and welcoming presence—Georgi himself, smiling as he shared stories about his art, well I could only guess as he spoke in French. To my delight, Georgi introduced me to his daughter, who was quietly assisting him at the booth. She had a gentle demeanor and spoke German fluently, she’s been living in Munich for sometime so we switched immediately.

It was such a surprise to find this shared connection amidst the buzz of the exhibit. We exchanged pleasantries and talked about her father’s creative process, her perspective on his art, and how they often collaborated during exhibitions like this. Speaking German in Paris felt surreal, but it added a personal touch to this encounter. Gerogi’s passion for storytelling was evident in every piece, each one carrying a sense of mischief and wonder, as though they were tiny windows into a playful, parallel universe. Meeting Georgi and his daughter reminded me of how art and conversation, regardless of language, bring people closer together.

Day 2: Discovering Hidden Stories and Connections

By the second day, I was in full swing, eagerly making my way through more booths and revisiting some of my favorites. Every artist had a unique story, often a fusion of their heritage, personal experiences, and passions.Our booth relatively has lots of Filipino artists and each has a different medium and method in expressing their creativity.

Christienne Cuevas, a young Filipino-Canadian artist with a penchant for old-style painting, had her pieces on display. Her work transported me into a time capsule, capturing the vintage elegance and charm of bygone eras. Cuevas’ paintings felt nostalgic, infused with a warmth that was inviting and familiar. Each of her pieces depicted scenes that seemed to honor traditional Filipino life, be it a stack of books, her self-portrait, and a delicate sea shell.

Miguel, his medium’s entirely unique: intricate paper cuts that seemed to defy the limits of what one might expect from paper art. His pieces were of intertwined layers, shapes, and shadows, cut so precisely that they almost resembled lacework. Each piece was intricate and meticulously crafted, showing scenes of Filipino life, nature, and folklore in a delicate interplay of negative and positive space. Miguel’s works had a three-dimensional quality that made each scene feel immersive, as though I could step right into the layered landscapes or detailed cityscapes. One piece in particular caught my eye—a sprawling depiction of a jungle scene, with every leaf, vine, and animal rendered in astonishing detail through paper. Shadows cast by the layers brought each element to life, giving the piece depth and texture. I found myself marveling at the patience and precision that each cut must have required, as well as the creativity to envision such complex designs. Miguel’s paper art was intricate yet bold, and each piece told a story that invited viewers to look closer, to follow each curve and angle, and to uncover the secrets hidden within the layers.

Frank Cruzet, a Filipino-Canadian artist renowned for his loose, expressive depictions of natural landscapes. His work seemed to breathe with the very essence of the Canadian outdoors, from dense, misty forests to sweeping mountain ranges touched by early morning light. Standing before Cruzet’s watercolors, I felt as though I was enveloped by the peace and quiet of nature itself. His loose brushstrokes didn’t dwell on minute details but instead captured the fleeting impressions of light, shadow, and atmosphere, allowing each scene to feel alive and ever-changing. I felt my mind wander with his brushstrokes, imagining the cool breeze, the sounds of birds, and the peaceful stillness of these untouched landscapes. Cruzet’s ability to evoke a sense of place with simplicity and fluidity was nothing short of mesmerizing.

Miho, a fantasy artist, takes viewers on a journey into a dreamlike arena. Her canvases are populated with beautiful flowers, musical instruments, cats and butterflies that seem poised between reality and imagination.

Meeting Miho was like entering the mind of a dreamer. She described her inspiration as stemming from both classical Japanese literature and her fascination with beautiful creatures. Her works often feature rich, luminous colors and intricate patterns, drawing the viewer into layered compositions that reveal new details with each glance.

Atsuko Obata was a delight, not just because of her enchanting art but because we quickly discovered a shared love for cats. Atsuko’s paintings were a heartwarming celebration of feline grace and charm, with each cat depicted in her art seeming to come alive with personality. Her booth was a cozy space filled with these painted companions, some lounging lazily, others mid-play, and a few gazing out with the inscrutable expression that only cats can manage.I found myself smiling at every piece, recognizing little traits that all cat lovers know so well. By the time I left her booth, I felt like I’d not only connected with her art but also found a kindred spirit who truly understood the charm of cats.

Shinon Matsumoto’s pieces were a sensory delight that caught my attention even before I stepped closer. The subtle, familiar hues made me curious, it’s a medium I’ve used once in a workshop with a fellow Filipina artist. Shinon uses coffee as her primary medium, and her creations were as  warm as the brew she painted with.

Her pieces were soft and earthy, each showcasing the versatility of coffee as an artistic material. From sepia-toned to whimsical compositions, Shinon’s work carried a sense of depth and nostalgia that I found both soothing and intriguing. When we spoke, she shared how she enjoyed discovering coffee’s unique properties—the way it stains, blends, and layers differently than traditional paints.

My husband and I were instantly drawn to the playful energy of Yuji Arima’s art, vibrant pop-up art seemed to leap off the walls. Yuji’s intricate designs were a mix of pop culture references and whimsical creativity, and it was clear he had a passion for storytelling through his art. With the help of an interpreter—a friendly half Japanese, half French teener—we struck up a conversation with Yuji. It didn’t take long for the topic to turn to anime, a shared love that lit up the discussion. Yuji’s eyes sparkled as he spoke about his favorite series, and we eagerly shared ours in return. My husband and I found ourselves reminiscing about classics like Dragonball Z and One Piece, while Yuji talked about how anime’s dynamic visuals influenced his artistic style. We felt a connection not just with his art but with Yuji himself—a fellow anime enthusiast who brought his love for the medium into every piece he made.

Day 3: Reflecting on Connections and Lasting Impressions : Art Beyond Boundaries

On the final day, I started feeling bittersweet, knowing I’d have to leave this incredible gallery soon. I wanted to see everything one last time, to make sure I didn’t miss a single detail or story. I retraced my steps, revisiting artists who had captivated me and saying goodbye to those I had formed connections with over the past days. More carefully now because the previous day, I got confused between Portuguese sculptor Angelina Maia and Consul General of Portugal Monica Lisboa, who graciously smiled for a photo!

Art, in its many forms, has a unique power to connect us, transcend limitations, and leave lasting impressions. These truths were vividly brought to life at the exhibit. Particularly striking were the works displayed by the Association Internationale des Artistes Peignant de la Bouche et du Pied (Association of Mouth and Foot Painting Artists in France) and the creative expressions of children showcased at the UWEE Louvre booth. Together, they highlighted resilience, creativity, and the boundless human spirit.

The Association Internationale des Artistes Peignant de la Bouche et du Pied represents artists who, due to physical disabilities, create their works by painting with their mouths or feet. This association, part of the international Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (MFPA) movement, empowers artists who have overcome immense physical challenges. Founded in 1956, the MFPA provides a platform for these individuals to earn a living and gain recognition through their art.

In France, this association nurtures creativity while raising awareness of the incredible adaptability and talent of its members. The artworks are a testament to the perseverance of the human spirit, often characterized by intricate details, vibrant colors, and deeply personal themes that touch the viewer’s heart. Their presence at the SIAC was a reminder of art’s ability to inspire, heal, and challenge preconceived notions of ability and expression.

A little later, I met Reiko Kitaura, a master of doll artistry, a traditional yet deeply personal craft in Japan (placed her photo at the top,oopps). Her creations transcend mere craftsmanship, resembling miniature beings imbued with emotion and spirit. Each doll is an intricate blend of fine materials, meticulous technique, and storytelling, often inspired by cultural myths, historical eras, or contemporary narratives.

Meeting Reiko was like stepping into a world of stillness and magic. She spoke of her artistic process with reverence, describing how she carefully selects materials such as silk, wood, and porcelain to shape each figure. Her dolls are not merely decorative; they evoke the elegance of traditional Japanese aesthetics while exploring universal themes of identity, beauty, and emotion.

Further at the end of the hall was the UWEE Louvre International Art Exhibition, organized by the UWEE group, a prestigious global event held in collaboration with different covernment and social organizations. The 6th edition in 2024 continued its tradition of celebrating artistic diversity, sustainability, and innovation. This exhibition serves as a bridge, connecting young artists from different cultures, under a shared vision of unity through creativity.

The UWEE booth at the exhibition showcased the participating children’s artworks, reflecting youthful imagination and an unfiltered view of the world. These pieces offered a refreshing counterpoint to the professional artworks, emphasizing the joy and simplicity inherent in unrestrained creativity. The children’s works reminded attendees of art’s universal language, accessible to all ages and skill levels.

Final Reflections: A Heart Full of Memories

Leaving the Carrousel du Louvre that last day, I felt a pang of sadness, but also a sense of fulfillment. This event had been everything I hoped it would be—a place to connect with like-minded art lovers, to dive into endless creativity, and to expand my understanding of art in a global context. I left Paris with a heart full of memories, a notebook filled with artist names and contacts, and a renewed passion for the art world.

For anyone who loves art as much as I do, the Salon International d’Art Contemporain isn’t just a fair; it’s a pilgrimage, a gathering of hearts and minds from across the world, united by a shared love for creativity and expression. I can’t wait to come back next year and do it all over again.

Salon International d’art Contemporain in Paris is a vibrant, dynamic event that reflects the energy and diversity of the global contemporary art landscape, continuing Paris’s legacy as a hub for cultural and artistic expression.