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Les Frigos de Paris is opening its exceptional 7000 m² of artist studios!

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The Editor

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At first glance, this huge concrete block might not look like much, but it actually houses more than 80 artists' studios spread over 7,000 m². And just like every year, Les Frigos in Paris opens its doors to the public, allowing everyone to discover its 120 resident artists and their amazing work. On Saturday, May 30 and Sunday, May 31, come join us to discover and take part in some artistic experiments at the foot of the Tolbiac bridge.

Painting, sculpture, photography, writing, design, and also engraving, gastronomy, textiles, theater, and glasswork, we challenge you to find an artistic practice that's not represented at Les Frigos in Paris. And this year more than ever, due to the financial challenges faced by the organization, it's the perfect time to dive into this fascinating world.


Open doors at a historic place 

Every year, during the last weekend of May, Les Frigos de Paris hosts open house days. This year, on May 30 and 31, you'll have the chance to meet all the artists who have opened their studios, chat with them, and even join in on the creation and introductory workshops they're organizing.

Entrance is free, and besides the workshops, you can also discover L’Aiguillage.

bsp;: the alternative art gallery of the Frigos artists. Here, you'll find numerous works created by the residents, and you can even enjoy a meal at the canteen of the fridge, which offers healthy and delicious cuisine.

But the most astonishing object in this space is the 73-ton Nazi locomotive, which was used to pull deportees' wagons to concentration camps during the Holocaust. Purchased by a former resident for an unfinished project, you'll be able to catch a glimpse of it during your visit.


A historic place !

Located in an old SNCF refrigerated site, Les Frigos de Paris is a large collective space of artist studios dating back to the 80s. Many artists rent and set up their studios for the time and activities they choose. Unlike traditional artist residences like Centquatre, the management here is very independent and less focused on the public.

This historic and iconic place for the artistic community of the capital allows artists to access large industrial spaces and a building that is very well soundproofed and reasonably priced: providing them the freedom to practice their art as freely as possible.

But today, the city of Paris plans to rehabilitate the Tolbiac neighborhood, which greatly threatens the residents of the Frigos. The rents are skyrocketing and the studios are emptying due to artists leaving or passing away, as some residents have been here since the place opened in 1985, and new faces are not moving in… That’s why it’s high time to show your support for the collective by visiting them next weekend!

Open House at the Frigos in Paris
19, rue des Frigos – 13th
Open House on May 30 and 31, 2026 
Admission : free 
More info