Art holds an important role in Monegasque culture and society. All over the Principality there is evidence of a dedication to the arts including a superb range of galleries and a vast selection of works freely accessible in Monaco’s many parks and gardens.
Those lucky enough to rent apartments in Monaco will be able to experience a host of international art exhibitions, with the Principality even hosting its own annual 4 day art festival.
Monaco boasts a great number of contemporary art galleries, many of which are dedicated to the support and development of young artists. The Galerie du Forum Kamil is probably the best known of these, offering visitors a variety of works from artists including Sabala, Damien Hirst, Lorenzo Quinn and the photographer, Luz.
Other notable Monaco galleries include Art & Rapy and la gallerie entrepôt which promotes not only the visual arts but also other artistic disciplines including literature and recitals.
It is not just contemporary art that Monaco offers however, but also the traditional. Maison d’Art Monaco, located on Avenue de la Costa, is arguably one of the most prestigious names in the art world. The gallery houses a large collection of old master paintings from the 13th to the 18th century featuring artists such as Friesz, Kisling, Boldini and Greuze. In addition, the gallery showcases some superb traditional sculpture, silverware and pottery.
Sculpture occupies a privileged position in Monaco and is placed throughout the Principality for the public to admire. In the Fontveille district, a pedestrian walk has been created around a large group of works which is easy to discover on foot. These include César’s ‘Le Poing’ an enormous clenched fist with awe-inspiring detail. Another distinctive piece is Adam and Eve located in the gardens below the Casino. Sculpted in 1981 by Fernando Botero, this piece is particularly popular with the public.
In April, Monaco will host its annual international art exhibition, Art Monaco. The four day festival will run from April 24th to 27th 2014 providing a forum for some of arts most influential individuals to converge with collectors and the media. The event will display an impressive range of works including special exhibitions dedicated to the art of Colombia, Israel and Russia.
If you are an art lover then a trip to Monaco could be the perfect break for you. The vibrant Principality has a lot to offer. Why not book a stay in one of the quality hotels or have a look for Monaco rentals for a short or long stay?
