Lyon Biennale Announces 118 Artists, New Exhibition Venues
The 18th Lyon Contemporary Art Biennale, running September 19 to December 13, 2026, will feature 118 artists, including 45 newcomers and expanding to include the historic Cour des Loges hotel.
Lyon, France – The 18th Lyon Contemporary Art Biennale, themed "Passer d'un rêve à l'autre" (To Pass from One Dream to Another), is set to take place from September 19 to December 13, 2026. The event has announced a roster of 118 participating artists, with 45 making their debut at the biennale.
Overseen by curator Catherine Nichols and artistic director Cécile Bourgeat, the biennale emphasizes diversity, with 68% of the featured artists being women and 23% under the age of 35. Attendees can anticipate viewing 65 new creations and 12 new adaptations by artists representing 42 different nationalities.
Further expanding its reach, the biennale is adding a new historic venue: Cour des Loges Lyon, A Radisson Collection Hotel. Located in the heart of Old Lyon, this Renaissance gem offers a distinctive backdrop for contemporary art, aligning with the event's theme by providing a space where heritage and imagination converge.
The exhibition will also spotlight 11 emerging artists through the "Jeune création internationale" (International Young Creation) program. These artists will receive professional support to create and display new works at the Institut d'art contemporain, with backing from the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region.
The Lyon Biennale continues to establish itself as a significant international platform for contemporary art, showcasing a broad spectrum of artistic practices and fostering the global careers of emerging talents.