Atelier des Lumières — Attraction in Paris

We went up to Paris on the train last Friday night to go to see the Atélier des Lumières Van Gogh exhibition with friends. It was partly a research trip to see how the lights covered the walls, but also because I love Van Gogh's paintings. This isn't a simple display of the masterpieces but living, moving recreations often with accompanying sound. The space is an old foundry, and it lends itself well to this kind of exhibition. The floors are mostly very flat, but there are occasional rises and falls so, if your balance isn't great, move slowly and carefully since there's not much light in the place.

The paintings are projected with no names or dates, which is a shame since other than the obvious greats like Sunflowers or Irises it would be nice to better know what you are looking at.

The tickets are available in two types - either an all-day pass for €29, or a ticket for a specific hour of the day for €14. I had chosen the all-day pass since I didn't know exactly when the friend I was meeting up with would go to the exhibition. He chose the hour ticket, and it's possibly enough time to see the three rolling exhibitions that cycle. There's "Starry Night", the Van Gogh section that runs for about half an hour, then there's "Dreamed Japan, Images of the Floating World", showing images from Japan mainly painted by Hokusai, including The Great Wave to music by Ryuichi Sakamoto and others. That probably lasts 15 minutes, then there's a set of images titled "Verse", that look like a visual poem about the start of the universe. This is the shortest.

It feels like the gift shop exceeds the space allotted to the gallery, given that it's on both sides of the street, but be warned. If you leave the gallery - even with an all-day pass - you can't go back in, which seems a little unfair.

Overall, this is a fantastic experience and you'll get the most from it if you are familiar with the oeuvre of the artists concerned and appreciate seeing the paintings deconstructed and remade in a novel way.

This morning I received an email indicating that the company is creating a new gallery space inside the submarine base in Bordeaux that means we won't need to go so far the next time :)

We visited again today (18.August.2023), with a guest who was amazed. The foundry was packed and very hot and sweaty - the temperature outside was about 30 degrees C. Only the Studio room was air-conditioned, but was showing a...

A Magical and Relaxing Experience

The Petit Prince exhibition at Atelier des Lumières in Paris is an absolute masterpiece—both visually stunning and deeply soothing for the mind. From the moment you step inside, you are transported into the enchanting world of Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s beloved story, brought to life through mesmerizing digital projections, immersive soundscapes, and dreamlike animations.

Visual & Sensory Delight

The 360-degree projections cover every inch of the vast industrial space, wrapping visitors in a cascade of colors, stars, and poetic landscapes. The delicate animations of the Little Prince, his rose, the fox, and the planets create a sense of wonder, making you feel as though you’ve stepped into the pages of the book. The soft transitions between scenes, combined with a carefully curated soundtrack, evoke a meditative calm—perfect for unwinding and letting your imagination wander.

Perfect for Relaxation & Reflection

Unlike traditional art exhibitions, this immersive experience encourages you to sit, lie down, or simply wander slowly, absorbing the beauty at your own pace. The gentle narration (available in French and English) adds depth without overwhelming the senses, making it ideal for both adults seeking a peaceful escape and children discovering the magic of The Petite Prince for the first time.

Great Value for the Price

Considering the high quality of the production, the ticket price is very reasonable. The show lasts around 30-45 minutes, but you can stay longer to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Early morning or weekday visits are recommended for a more intimate setting.

Final Thoughts The Petit Prince show at Atelier des Lumières is more than just an exhibition—it’s a therapeutic journey for the soul. Whether you're a fan of the book or simply looking for a unique, calming experience in Paris, this show is a must-see. I left feeling inspired, relaxed, and utterly enchanted.

A truly unforgettable escape into art and...

L'Atelier de Lumière in Paris is an artistic haven that combines technology and culture to create an unforgettable immersive experience. Nestled in the 11th arrondissement, this innovative space showcases digital art in a breathtaking way.

Upon entering, you'll be mesmerized by the grandeur of the venue – a former foundry transformed into a cathedral of light and sound. The main attraction is the massive projection hall, where moving images come to life on the floor, walls, and ceiling, enveloping you in a surreal world of color and motion.

The choice of exhibitions is diverse, featuring famous artworks and thematic displays that transport you through time and space. Whether it's Van Gogh's Starry Night or a journey through abstract patterns, each exhibit is a sensory delight.

The interactive aspect is a highlight; you can often manipulate elements of the art through your own movements, making each visit unique. The accompanying music and soundscapes enhance the immersive experience.

L'Atelier de Lumière also boasts a cozy café for relaxation and reflection after your visual journey. Tickets are reasonably priced for the sheer magic you'll encounter.

In a city known for its art and culture, L'Atelier de Lumière stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a cutting-edge and captivating artistic experience. It's a place where technology and artistry converge to create a true feast...