To celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Palais Garnier in 2025, the Paris Opera and Arop have launched PROJECT 12, a year-long residency program welcoming 12 contemporary artists to the historic venue. Each month, one artist will immerse themselves in the daily life of the Opera, drawing inspiration from its rich atmosphere, rehearsals, and interactions with dancers, musicians, and craftspeople.
This initiative pays homage to Charles Garnier’s original vision of uniting architecture and art, as 19th-century painters, sculptors, and artisans once did during the Palais Garnier’s construction. The resident artists will create exclusive works reflecting their unique experiences, weaving a dialogue between the Opera’s storied past and the contemporary art world.
These artworks will be auctioned in early 2026, with proceeds supporting the Paris Opera and promoting modern creativity. The first artist of the program, Dhewadi Hadjab, known for his hyperrealistic canvases blending photography and painting, brings a sense of stillness and fragility to his works.
Stay tuned as the Paris Opera reveals each month’s resident artist, continuing this extraordinary journey of innovation and tradition.
Images courtesy of PALAIS GARNIER
