Trends spotted during Paris Art Week

Did you miss the most important week in the art world? Find all the trends you need to know in this article!

The week of October 20-26, 2025 was marked by numerous artistic events in Paris. On the program: iconic fairs such as Art Basel Paris and others highlighting specific styles, such as Also Known As Africa. Find out everything you need to know about October’s fairs in Paris.

1-Trends spotted at Art Basel Paris

From October 24 to 26, the world’s most famous art fair, Art Basel, took place at the Grand Palais. Visitors had the chance to admire works by major artists such as Picasso and Modigliani. The fair also featured a section dedicated to emerging artists and another showcasing historical works spanning several centuries.

Among the highlights was an impressive installation by Takashi Murakami, celebrating the latest edition of his collaboration with Louis Vuitton.

Artsper’s experts identified several major trends at this extraordinary fair. First, there was a strong presence of kinetic art — works incorporating movement — seen in pieces by Niki de Saint Phalle and Jean Tinguely. Whether murals or sculptures, motion played a central role. We also noticed numerous mobiles and stabiles by Alexander Calder, gently swaying in space.

Second, our experts observed innovative uses of light in several works. Some pieces functioned as both lighting and furniture, while others used light purely for artistic effect. The interplay of light and shadow was at times playful, daring, or experimental.

Finally, many works featured abstract, geometric, and vividly colorful forms, drawing inspiration from great masters such as Mark Rothko and Yves Klein, who placed color at the heart of their art.

2-What to remember from the Moderne Art Fair

Another major fair was held in a temporary tent set up on Place de la Concorde from October 23 to 26. The Moderne Art Fair is a must-see event for lovers of contemporary and modern art. Numerous galleries offered a wide variety of works, ranging from paintings and sculptures to a large selection of editions and furniture. Here are the main trends identified by our teams.

Firstly, contemporary furniture with designs inspired by the 1970s, displayed in reimagined living rooms.

Also, huge canvases with mostly abstract motifs, inspired by great artists such as Kenneth Noland, Sam Francis, and Delaunay.

Bright colors were also central to many of the works. Whether canvases or sculptures, these were mostly plain, perfect for bringing color and boldness to an interior.

Finally, we noticed a huge use of digital technology. For example, projections and videos played with movement and light.

3-Must-sees at Also Known As Africa, AKAA

The 10th edition of this iconic fair was held at the Carreau du Temple. A must-see event in the contemporary art world, it showcases emerging and established artists from the African art scene. Our teams found bold, political, and colorful works there. Some convey powerful messages, whether defending freedoms or denouncing social injustice. Art thus asserts its place as a tool for protest and denunciation.

Here are the trends to remember from this event. First of all, our teams noticed a strong use of fabric, whether in murals or sculptures. Texture and color were thus particularly highlighted.

There were also many portraits on display. Whether on huge canvases, vases, or wall sculptures, many expressive faces were depicted.

4-Decorating trends at Design Miami

Karl Lagerfeld’s former home on Rue de l’Université hosted the prestigious Design Miami exhibition. This exhibition is dedicated to furniture and decoration. Visitors were able to see innovative lamps, chairs, and tables designed by contemporary artists. Among the selection, our experts spotted several trends that will inspire you for future trendy interior design. One thing is certain: minimalism seems to have been forgotten, giving way to maximalism down to the smallest details.

First of all, as at the Moderne Art Fair, the 1970s seem to be at the heart of the inspiration. The use of orange, rounded shapes, and teak reflects this growing interest.

An exotic inspiration was also evident in the use of sub-Saharan tribal motifs, for example. In addition, some motifs were inspired by North African tapestry traditions, featured on decorative cushions and seats.

Finally, echoing a trend that had already been spotted, textiles were a central source of inspiration, whether in the form of intricate rugs, maximalist lampshades, or distinctive seating.

5-Oriental trends at MENART

The sixth edition of this iconic fair was held in the Marais district. It is the only international fair in Europe dedicated to modern and contemporary art from the MENA (Middle East & North Africa) region. The theme of this edition was “Ode to Softness.” The overall objective of this fair is to showcase the artists and craftsmanship of this region.

During this visit, several elements caught the attention of the Artsper teams. First, the use of ancient craftsmanship or motifs, combined with more contemporary art. For example, the use of a tapestry motif combined with metallic facets reflects a juxtaposition of the region’s ancient craftsmanship with modernity.

In addition, like AKAA, several works have a political, social, or critical purpose. For example, some works aim to depict the social diversity of the region. Others celebrate the female body without taboo or modesty in order to denounce a lack of emancipation.

Conclusion

The art fair season is coming to an end in the French capital. Artsper teams has spotted some trends that may inspire you for your future acquisitions or decorating ideas. The use of new technologies and movement is undeniable. At the same time, colors are becoming brighter and details are either disappearing or, on the contrary, becoming striking. The 1970s seem to be making a comeback and inspiring the creations of many artists. Minimalism, represented by dull colors, clean lines, and simple objects, no longer seems to be in vogue. All these trends point to a return to character and boldness, particularly through maximalist, dynamic, and colorful works of art and furniture.

Experience the latest trends with these artists

Inspired by Also Known As Africa

Present at Moderne Art Fair