18th Lyon Biennale Opens Doors to Contemporary Art Experiences

The 18th Lyon Biennale, Contemporary Art is gearing up for its highly anticipated opening, with professionals and enthusiasts alike preparing for a unique cultural experience. Scheduled to take place from September 17 to 18, the Biennale offers exclusive access to its 120 artists and their works for two days prior to the public opening. The event, which runs from September 19 to December 13, 2026, will feature installations and exhibitions across 11 venues in Lyon and its metropolitan area.

Artistic Director Isabelle Bertolotti and Guest Curator Catherine Nichols have crafted an edition titled "Passer d'un rêve à l'autre / To pass from one dream to another," inspired by the city's traboules, hidden passageways that connect one space to another. This year’s theme explores the transformation of dreams and the various ways humans move through perception and space.

Professional preview days, open to artists, curators, gallerists, and other cultural professionals, will provide an opportunity for in-depth exploration of the exhibition. Accreditation is required for access and applications are open until September 16. The programme includes meetings, conversations with artists, and networking sessions, all taking place at Les Grandes Locos.

The Biennale extends beyond traditional museum spaces, integrating cultural institutions, heritage sites, former industrial spaces, and public areas. Venues such as Les Grandes Locos, macLYON, the Musée des Tissus et des Arts décoratifs, and the Jardin du Musée des Beaux-Arts offer diverse experiences for visitors. Additionally, the exhibition will incorporate everyday spaces like the Parking LPA Saint-Antoine and Metro Line B, making the city itself a key part of the experience.

For the public, the Biennale de Lyon promises a rich and immersive journey through contemporary art. With 120 artists and over 400 works, the exhibition aims to make art accessible and engaging. Ticket prices are set at €20 for the Biennale Pass, available until September 18, after which the standard price of €25 will apply.

The event is a collaborative effort between the Lyon Biennale and Artprice, a global leader in art market information. The partnership highlights the continued support of the Lyon metropolitan area as a leading platform for contemporary art and its promotion to a global audience.

With its unique approach and extensive venue selection, the 18th Lyon Biennale, Contemporary Art stands as a testament to the city's commitment to cultural innovation and artistic exploration. As audiences and professionals alike gather to explore this year’s theme, the Biennale promises to offer a transformative experience that bridges the gap between dreams and reality.