Art Basel Paris commissions monumental public artwork celebrating the city
A striking new commission transforms Paris into an open air gallery, merging contemporary art with the city's most beloved cultural touchstones.
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The relationship between art and the urban landscape has long fascinated collectors and curators alike, yet rarely does a single commission capture the essence of a city quite so eloquently. Art Basel Paris 2026 presents an extraordinary opportunity to witness this convergence, unveiling a monumental work that transcends the traditional confines of gallery walls and permeates the very streets and sensibilities of one of the world’s most culturally resonant capitals.
Created by artist Nadjib Ben Ali, ‘Et on dansera…’ stands as a testament to the multifaceted character of Paris itself. The title, meaning ‘And we shall dance…’, carries within it a poetic optimism that speaks to the dynamism and joie de vivre inherent to the city. This is not merely an artwork; it is a celebration of the intricate tapestry woven from contemporary creativity, cultural heritage, and the unbridled passion that Parisians hold for their beloved institutions.
Commissioned by Paris Saint Germain, the work emerges as a fascinating dialogue between the worlds of fine art and sport, two seemingly disparate realms that nonetheless share a profound capacity to move, inspire, and unite communities. The artwork acknowledges this symbiosis, recognising how deeply football has become embedded within Paris’s cultural consciousness, alongside its thriving contemporary art scene.
A Living, Evolving Presence
What renders this commission particularly compelling is its nomadic nature. Rather than remaining fixed in a single location, ‘Et on dansera…’ will voyage across Paris, becoming an ever present yet perpetually surprising addition to the urban landscape. This iterative approach transforms the work from static object into something far more vital: a living conversation between the artist, the city, and those who encounter it.
The collaborative spirit underpinning this project speaks volumes about contemporary art’s evolving relationship with brands and institutions. When executed with such thoughtfulness and aesthetic integrity, these partnerships elevate public discourse, inviting broader audiences to engage with contemporary practice in organic, unexpected ways. The streets become a gallery without the formality; art becomes woven into daily experience rather than cordoned off behind white walls.
Art Basel Paris continues to position itself at the vanguard of this evolution, curating experiences that challenge conventional notions of where art belongs and how it functions within society. Through commissions such as this, the fair demonstrates an unwavering commitment to art’s capacity to reshape our relationship with the cities we inhabit, transforming public space into something altogether more enchanting and culturally resonant.
Imagery courtesy of Art Basel (@artbasel).