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The 18th Lyon Biennale: A New Artistic Vision

In just twelve days, the 18th Lyon Biennale – Contemporary Art will unveil its latest edition, welcoming artists, art professionals, collectors, and art enthusiasts from around the world. Scheduled for an extensive run from September 19 to December 13, 2026, this edition promises to offer a unique exploration of contemporary art across several venues throughout Lyon and its metropolitan area.

Professional Preview Days:

Before the official public opening, the event will initiate with two exclusive preview days for professionals on September 17 and 18, 2026. This invitation is extended to artists, curators, gallerists, and other participants involved in the cultural sector. These professionals will enjoy early access to the exhibitions, including an opening reception at Les Grandes Locos, a highlight venue for this biennale.

The professional accreditation is designed to facilitate networking and collaboration, featuring opportunities for discussions and exchanges with renowned artists and other professionals. Interested parties have until September 16 to apply for accreditation, ensuring an inclusive and vibrant exchange of ideas and artistic visions.

Exploring the Theme:

The theme for this year's Lyon Biennale, titled "Passer d'un rêve à l'autre" (To pass from one dream to another), is curated under the artistic direction of Isabelle Bertolotti and organized by Catherine Nichols. This concept draws inspiration from the city's historical traboules—passages that connect various spaces—symbolizing the transitions between different modes of perception and collective dreams.

The Biennale intends to reflect upon Lyon's legacy as a center for trade and exchange, scrutinizing how various economies shape our everyday lives in tandem with artistic expression. Visitors are invited to rediscover the city through a new lens, engaging with contemporary art that dialogues with the urban landscape.

Venues and Artistic Engagement:

With 120 artists exhibiting across 11 diverse venues, this year's Biennale transcends the conventional museum experience. Key venues include:

• - Les Grandes Locos: A major industrial site that will house discussions and reflections on production and transformation.
• - Musée d'art contemporain de Lyon: Focusing on life, death, and societal contracts.
• - Musée des Tissus et des Arts décoratifs: Exploring relationships and forms of care exhibited in art.

Additional venues encompass public transit stations, gardens, and even former industrial sites, which serve as vital points of artistic encounters. Each location contributes to the overarching narrative of contemporary art in an urban setting, breaking free from traditional exhibition spaces.

Interaction with Lyon's Culture:

Running for nearly three months, the biennale transforms Lyon into an expansive art installation. Attendees will experience art not just in curated spaces but within the fabric of the city itself—making metro rides and strolls through historic alleys part of the artistic journey.

The Biennale’s mission is clear: to foster a robust engagement with contemporary art, making it accessible to everyone. This reinforces its ongoing commitment to inclusivity and the democratization of art experiences.

Practical Details:

For those interested in attending, the detailed schedule of events and practical information can be found on the official Biennale website. Public ticket sales are available until September 18, with the biennale pass priced at €20.

In summary, the 18th Lyon Biennale plans to be a landmark event, showcasing the rich tapestry of contemporary art. As the city prepares to open its doors, anticipation builds for what promises to be a transformative cultural experience that not only celebrates artistic expression but also redefines public interaction with art.