Clément Delépine to Lead Lafayette Anticipations After Transforming Art Basel Paris

Clément Delépine, the visionary director who successfully launched and developed Art Basel Paris, will soon begin a new chapter as the artistic director of Lafayette Anticipations, the forefront contemporary art foundation in Paris. Since taking the helm at Art Basel Paris in 2022, Delépine has been widely recognized for reinventing the fair with innovative programming, enlarging its scope, and positioning it as a cultural landmark within Paris’s thriving art ecosystem.

Revolutionary Leadership at Art Basel Paris

Delépine’s tenure at Art Basel Paris has been marked by remarkable achievements. The 2024 edition was the first to take place at the newly renovated and historically significant Grand Palais in Paris, providing an opulent setting for one of the most prestigious modern and contemporary art fairs globally. Here, Delépine oversaw an expanded roster of 195 galleries from 42 countries, including a new sector called Premise, dedicated to pre-1900 artworks and curatorial experimentation.

Under his leadership, the fair’s public program evolved to favor freer narratives and broader inclusivity, breaking down traditional boundaries to foster deeper cultural dialogues. Projects such as Tales & Tellers, conceptualized by Goshka Macuga and convened by Elvira Dyangani Ose of MACBA, exemplify this innovative spirit.

Transitioning to Lafayette Anticipations: A New Artistic Challenge

Starting in late 2025, Delépine will succeed Rebecca Lamarche-Vadel as director of Lafayette Anticipations, a foundation established by the Galeries Lafayette group, championing contemporary art and experimental projects. This move reflects Delépine’s passion for experimental platforms that allow artists and curators to push conceptual and material boundaries.

The transition signals an exciting opportunity for Lafayette Anticipations to build on its reputation as a hub for emerging and mid-career artists while continuing to foster interdisciplinary collaboration—a mission well suited to Delépine’s curatorial vision, honed through his time at Art Basel.

Impact on the French and Global Art Markets

Delépine’s departure comes as the French art market continues to solidify its role as a major global player, holding a significant share of European transactions. His efforts have helped amplify Paris’s position in the international art calendar and attract diverse audiences.

His leadership also stresses accessibility and education, essential to democratizing art and increasing engagement beyond core collector demographics. This ethos aligns closely with Lafayette Anticipations’ goals of cultural outreach.

Visual and Cultural Highlights

  • The iconic Grand Palais location of Art Basel Paris, showcasing cutting-edge architecture and exhibition design.

  • Highlights from Art Basel’s Premise section and public programs, including installations by Goshka Macuga and exhibitions at the Petit Palais and Palais-Royal.

  • Images of Clément Delépine at the opening events and public talks during the fair.

  • Visual documentation of Lafayette Anticipations exhibitions reflecting its avant-garde curatorial program.

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FAQ

Who is Clément Delépine?

Clément Delépine is a French curator and artistic director who led Art Basel Paris since its inaugural edition in 2022 and has been appointed director of Lafayette Anticipations starting late 2025.

What were Delépine’s major accomplishments at Art Basel Paris?

He guided the fair’s relocation to the historic Grand Palais, expanded its gallery participation, introduced the Premise sector for pre-1900 artworks, and restructured the public program for broader cultural engagement.

What is Lafayette Anticipations?

Lafayette Anticipations is a Paris-based contemporary art foundation known for promoting experimental practices and interdisciplinary projects, supported by the Galeries Lafayette group.

How has Delépine influenced the French art market?

His direction helped elevate Paris as a key hub in the international art calendar, promoting openness, innovation, and reaching wider audiences beyond traditional collectors.

What new opportunities does Delépine’s role at Lafayette Anticipations represent?

His curatorial vision aligns with fostering avant-garde projects and supporting emerging artists, continuing to push boundaries in contemporary art presentation and discourse.