Air de Paris, a prominent French art gallery, has announced its closure after an impressive 36-year journey, as revealed by its cofounders, Florence Bonnefous and Edouard Merino. The decision comes as a result of financial challenges and personal health issues affecting the founders, with Bonnefous specifically battling Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.
Bonnefous clarified that the gallery's debts are solely owed to the landlord and the bank, ensuring that no artists are adversely affected. The gallery's closure reflects a broader contemplation of the evolving dynamics within the art market, with Bonnefous expressing a desire to distance herself from recent trends that prioritize corporate efficiency over artistic integrity.
Throughout its history, Air de Paris has been a significant platform for various artists, including Trisha Donnelly, Joseph Grigely, and Pierre Joseph. Its farewell exhibition, titled "Oh What a Time," showcased the work of many talented individuals who had previously collaborated with the gallery. The gallery is recognized for having championed now-renowned figures such as Liam Gillick and Dominique Gonzalez-Foerster, contributing significantly to their early careers.
Reflecting on the gallery's journey, Bonnefous noted, "Little by little, we realized we wanted to do things differently. While the reasons for closing are multifaceted, it was crucial for us to step back from the direction the art market has taken." This introspection highlights the gallery's commitment to authenticity in an increasingly commercial landscape.
Despite the closure, Bonnefous plans to continue her work as a curator and will oversee the estates of several artists, including Guy de Cointet and Pati Hill. Founded in 1990 and initially located in Nice, the gallery moved to Paris in 1994 and has operated from Romainville since 2019. It has been a fixture at major art fairs, including Art Basel and FIAC, further solidifying its legacy in the contemporary art scene.
Air de Paris made headlines last year when it withdrew from Art Basel's June 2025 edition in protest against changes in the fair's organizational structure, emphasizing its commitment to maintaining a space for independent artistic expression.
This development marks the end of an era for Air de Paris, yet it opens new avenues for artistic exploration and innovation in the contemporary art landscape. As the gallery closes its doors, it leaves behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire future generations of artists and curators.
