59 Rivoli is a renowned artist collective, studio, and exhibition space located at 59 Rue de Rivoli in the 1st arrondissement of Paris, France. It is celebrated for its distinctive history as an illegally occupied squat that transformed into a legally recognized cultural institution, and for its vibrant, ever-changing artistic facade.
History and Transformation: The building at 59 Rue de Rivoli, originally a branch of the Crédit Lyonnais bank, stood abandoned for fifteen years prior to its occupation. In November 1999, a group of three artists, known as "KGB" (Kalex, Gaspard, and Bruno), illegally occupied the building. They began transforming the neglected space into art studios and exhibition areas, initially without electricity or water. This act of "squatting" for artistic purposes quickly gained notoriety and public attention, becoming a symbol of artistic resistance and the reclaiming of urban space for creative endeavors.
The squat attracted a diverse community of artists from around the world, who used the numerous rooms as personal studios and collaborated on large-scale installations and street-art-inspired exteriors. The building's facade became a dynamic canvas, constantly evolving with new murals, paintings, and artistic adornments, drawing the eye of passersby and becoming a landmark in itself.
Despite its popularity, the illegal occupation led to several legal challenges and threats of eviction. However, due to significant public and artistic support, the City of Paris, under Mayor Bertrand Delanoë, recognized the cultural value of the project. After extensive negotiations, the city eventually purchased the building in 2006. Following a period of renovation to bring the building up to safety and accessibility standards, 59 Rivoli officially reopened in 2009, this time as a fully legal and subsidized artist space.
Current Status and Impact: Today, 59 Rivoli operates as a multi-story creative hub. It houses around 30 permanent artists' studios, which are typically open to the public during visiting hours, allowing visitors to observe artists at work. The ground floor and upper levels also feature rotating exhibition spaces for both resident and guest artists. The vibrant atmosphere is further enhanced by concerts and performances held regularly.
59 Rivoli has become a significant cultural attraction in Paris, drawing thousands of visitors annually. Its unique journey from an artistic squat to a legitimate institution serves as an influential case study for urban development, cultural policy, and the role of grassroots art movements in shaping cityscapes. It continues to embody a spirit of artistic freedom and accessibility, fostering a direct interaction between artists and the public.