Frequently asked questions
How does the Atelier des Lumières on rue Saint Maur work?
The artistic experience is brought to life by a sophisticated technical system. 140 high-definition video projectors cover the walls, floor and metal structures of the former foundry, covering an area of 3,300 m².
A spatialized sound system with 50 loudspeakers creates an enveloping atmosphere of sound, perfectly synchronized with the monumental projections. Works by the great masters are displayed at 360 degrees, reaching heights of up to 10 metres.
The digital art center marries technology and architectural heritage. The foundry's columns, chimneys and basins become unique projection media, transforming every nook and cranny into a living canvas. Visitors wander freely through this universe, where masterpieces come to life, metamorphosing and interacting with the industrial architecture of the site.
What kind of shows can be seen at the Atelier de Lumières?
Thematic exhibitions transport visitors into a variety of artistic worlds. The current immersive odyssey celebrates Antoine de Saint-Exupéry's The Little Prince. It transforms the spaces into a poetic, dreamlike journey. The event runs until August 31, 2025, and alternates between the great masters of painting and contemporary creations. Van Gogh's paintings will dance on the walls from July 2025, enhanced by a specially composed soundtrack.
Which metro station for the Atelier des Lumières?
Located at 38 rue Saint-Maur in the 11th arrondissement, l'Atelier des Lumières benefits from excellent transport links. Four metro stations are within walking distance:
Rue Saint-Maur (line 3) 4 minutes away
Saint-Ambroise or Voltaire (line 9) 7 minutes away
Père Lachaise (line 2) 8 minutes away
Visitors can also take buses 46, 56, 61 and 69, which serve the district. The "Chemin Vert" and "Folie Regnault-Chemin Vert" stops are in the immediate vicinity of the site.
What are the opening hours of the Atelier des Lumières?
The Atelier des Lumières welcomes visitors every day. Opening times and days may vary depending on the exhibition.
Immerse yourself in the world of the Little Prince with an immersive exhibition open from April 11 to July 6, 2025, every day from 10am to 9pm, with final access at 7pm.
And don't miss the Picasso - Le Douanier Rousseau exhibition, running from April 28 to July 6, 2025, Mondays and Sundays from 10am to 6pm, with the last viewing slot at 4:45pm.
Art lovers can enjoy nocturnes until 9pm on certain days.
Screenings run continuously throughout the day, with no set times. For a comfortable visit, plan to arrive at least 1h15 before the site closes.
Who created the Atelier des Lumières?
The rebirth of this former 19th-century foundry owes everything to Bruno Monnier, Chairman of Culturespaces. When he discovered the abandoned building in 2013, he envisioned an ambitious project: to create the first digital art center in Paris.
His vision was directly inspired by the success of Les Carrières des Lumières, inaugurated in Les Baux-de-Provence in 2012. The site finally opens its doors on April 13, 2018, after extensive renovation work that preserves the site's industrial authenticity.
This transformation marks the beginning of a new era for the Plichon foundry, established in 1835. The project revolutionizes the traditional museum experience, offering immersive exhibits that attract more and more visitors every year.
