Louis Vuitton continues its artistic journey at Art Basel Paris, unveiling a special exhibition at the Grand Palais to honor its nearly 20-year collaboration with visionary architect and artist Frank Gehry. As an associate partner of Art Basel Paris for the third consecutive year, the Maison presents an immersive showcase of Gehry’s creative process and his iconic designs, displayed on the Balcon d’Honneur of the Grand Palais.
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The exhibition, conceptualized with Gehry’s direct involvement, explores his fluid approach to architecture, design, and art through a captivating collection of objects, drawings, and models created over two decades for Louis Vuitton. At the heart of the installation is a monumental hanging white fish, symbolizing Gehry’s fascination with aerodynamic forms. Suspended gracefully above the Grand Palais staircase, the sculpture reflects the supple, organic elements that define Gehry’s designs while subtly nodding to his appreciation for Japanese aesthetics.
Highlighting their close collaboration, the exhibition also celebrates Gehry’s Fondation Louis Vuitton building in Paris, which marks its tenth anniversary this year. Visitors can explore scale models and early sketches dating back to 2006, showcasing the interplay of light and transparency that guided the creation of this architectural masterpiece. The presentation further draws connections to Gehry’s later projects, such as the Maison Louis Vuitton Seoul (2019) and his sculptural Les Extraits perfume stoppers from 2021, which embody his signature twisting, organic forms.
In addition to his architectural contributions, Gehry’s designs extend into Louis Vuitton’s exclusive handbag collections. The Capucines bags, inspired by botanical forms and architectural icons, illustrate his seamless ability to translate complex design principles into fashion. Highlights include the Capucines MM Floating Fish, with leather low-relief scales, and the BB Croc, featuring a sculptural alligator handle. Each piece merges Gehry’s architectural language with Louis Vuitton’s craftsmanship, resulting in functional art.
Louis Vuitton’s collaboration with Gehry is part of a broader tradition of artistic partnerships dating back nearly a century. The Maison continues to engage with renowned creators, including Sol LeWitt, Takashi Murakami, Yayoi Kusama, and others, enriching its identity with artistic excellence.
Running from October 18 to 20 as part of Art Basel Paris, the exhibition celebrates Louis Vuitton’s legacy of blending art, design, and innovation. It reinforces the brand’s commitment to creativity, innovation, and craftsmanship, honoring the visionary influence of Frank Gehry within the framework of contemporary art.
