Second International Biennale in Saint-Paul de Vence Showcases 18 Emerging Artists

The second International Biennale in Saint-Paul de Vence presents 18 emerging artists through an outdoor contemporary art trail until October 2, 2021. Organized by local gallerist Catherine Issert and art historian Olivier Kaeppelin, this edition deliberately focuses on young talent rather than established international names, inspired by the approach of the Biennale artpress des jeunes artistes. Works are thoughtfully integrated into the village's public spaces, including along ramparts, in narrow cobbled streets, and at panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean. Aurélie Pétrel's large photograph enhances the Provençal landscape near a discreet chapel. Stéphane Guiran's delicate aerial sculptures occupy the old washhouse and cemetery chapel. Charles Le Hyaric, previously shown at the 2020 Biennale artpress, installs an unusual nebula within an olive tree. Juliette Minchin places an ephemeral wax altar on the church square, while Kokou Ferdinand Makouvia's sculpture hangs on the ramparts. Many participating artists already have gallery representation. Numerous art galleries in this artistic village are invited to highlight one of their artists alongside the biennale. The inaugural edition featured internationally renowned artists, but this iteration takes a different direction by championing emerging voices. The compact scale allows visitors to explore the entire route multiple times without fatigue, creating a poetic dialogue with the site's memory.