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The 18th Lyon Biennale of Contemporary Art

Starting September 19, 2026, the Lyon Biennale of Contemporary Art opens its doors, inviting art enthusiasts and the general public to embark on an artistic journey that will run until December 13, 2026. This year's theme, 'Passer d'un rêve à l'autre' or 'Passing from One Dream to Another', promises a rich exploration of creativity and human connection through art.

Event Overview

The Biennale will unfold across 11 unique venues in Lyon and its metropolitan area. Attendees can expect to see works from 120 talented artists, featuring nearly 400 diverse creations. Curated by prominent art historian Catherine Nichols, the festival aims to engage visitors with art in major venues, museums, and some unexpected locations, including the Museum of Contemporary Art Lyon and the Musée des Tissus, which will be reopening specifically for this event.

Attendees are encouraged to make their own itineraries, creating a personalized experience at their own pace. The Biennale Pass allows for entry to all participating venues and is designed to be accessible, showcasing new initiatives for individuals with varying abilities, including easy-to-read exhibition labels. The pass ranges from €18 to €25 and grants visitors a single entry to each venue until the event's conclusion in December.

Accessibility Features

With access free for children under 15, students from the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, and art students, the Biennale aims to welcome as wide an audience as possible. Reduced rates are offered for those younger than 26, ensuring that the arts remain inclusive. For individuals looking to delve deeper into the exhibitions, guided tours and audio guides are available for an additional cost, enriching the viewing experience.

Art and Society

This iteration of the Lyon Biennale is more than just an art showcase; it serves as a platform for reflections on contemporary life. Through the lens of dreams and transitions, artists will explore pressing societal themes, exemplifying how creativity can stimulate conversations about our shared responsibilities in shaping the future. Nichols' curatorial vision encourages a dialogue between art and the social sciences, focusing on how cultural narratives can offer alternative means of cohabitation in an ever-changing world.

The Biennale also engages with thought-provoking discussions surrounding artificial intelligence and its impact on humanity. Thierry Ehrmann, founder of Artprice, contributes to the dialogue with his work, discussing the intersection of technology, free will, and critical thinking in art. His explorations resonate with the overarching theme of the Biennale, inviting audiences to consider the role of storytelling in modern society.

The Experience Awaits

As the Biennale spans nearly three months, patrons can revisit the venues multiple times, allowing for repeated exposure to various artworks and exhibitions. The flexibility of the Biennale Pass further enhances the experience, catering to diverse schedules and interests. This ensures that whether it’s a casual visit or a dedicated art tour, there is something for everyone.

The 18th Lyon Biennale of Contemporary Art stands as a celebration of the artistic spirit, encouraging visitors to immerse themselves in a world of creativity and thought. Mark your calendars for this exceptional event that offers not only a showcase of artistic expressions but also a chance for collective reflection on our humanity. Don't miss this unique opportunity to witness how dreams and art intersect in powerful ways until December 13, 2026.