Since 2018, CHANEL has played an important role as the exclusive patron of the Grand Palais, supporting its cultural and artistic endeavors. This long-standing relationship is now extending for another five years, reinforcing CHANEL’s status as the Major Patron of the Grand Palais. Through the GrandPalaisRmn endowment fund, CHANEL’s renewed commitment highlights its dedication to both the restoration of the iconic space and the development of its artistic programs.
The partnership between CHANEL and the Grand Palais is a deep-rooted one. Beginning in 2005, the Grand Palais became a stage for the imaginative visions of Karl Lagerfeld, where CHANEL’s fashion shows transformed the venue into a spectacle of creativity. From oversized sculptures symbolizing CHANEL’s timeless jacket to larger-than-life recreations of a supermarket and even a space-bound rocket, these settings captivated global audiences.
Bruno Pavlovsky, President of CHANEL Fashion, emphasizes the significance of the Grand Palais to the brand, comparing it to other iconic CHANEL landmarks like Rue Cambon and Place Vendôme. Pavlovsky sees the Grand Palais as a vital cultural hub that will continue to shape the influence of both Paris and France. As Paris undergoes transformations, the Grand Palais is set to stand the test of time, much like the Eiffel Tower, he notes.
In line with its preservation efforts, CHANEL originally supported the Grand Palais’ restoration in 2018, aiming to restore its architectural brilliance. Now, the House has committed thirty million euros to fund the cultural and artistic programming of the GrandPalaisRmn between 2024 and 2028.
Didier Fusillier, President of the GrandPalaisRmn, detailed the extensive restoration efforts that have been in progress, highlighting the craftsmanship involved. The Grand Palais, first constructed for the 1900 Universal Exhibition, is being rejuvenated to its original glory. The structure’s distinctive reseda-green framework and cream-colored walls are undergoing careful preservation to ensure the building meets modern conservation and operational standards. As it reopens, the Grand Palais will host a diverse array of fine art exhibitions, contemporary installations, and live performances.
In April 2024, the Nave of the Grand Palais was officially renamed “Gabrielle Chanel” in honor of the brand’s founder. The space will make its debut with CHANEL’s Spring-Summer 2025 Ready-to-Wear show in October 2024, just before the art exhibitions begin in late 2024. By June 2025, the public will be able to explore the newly restored Grand Palais, which will feature innovative spaces designed for exhibitions and other cultural events.
One of the highlights of the restoration is the creation of a monumental curtain by Studio MTX, part of the Montex embroidery atelier. This curtain will transform the central Nave into a flexible event space. In keeping with CHANEL’s commitment to craftsmanship, the curtain will be embroidered during public workshops held at la Galerie du 19M. These workshops, in collaboration with other Maisons d’art at le19M, will allow visitors to actively participate in the creation process.
