For several years now, Nantes has claimed its place as a hotspot on the French cultural scene. Here are four spots to (re)visit on your next trip there.
Cover photo: PixaBay
Zoo Galerie
Photo: @zoogalerie on Instagram
Founded by a collective of artists, critics, architects and professors, this gallery showcases French and international talents in a smart space measuring 100 square metres, masterfully orchestrated by independent curator Patrice Joly.
12 rue Lamoricière, 44000 Nantes
Fine Arts Museum of Nantes
Photo: @hist_arts on Instagram
This is a must-visit spot, where you can enjoy the temporary and permanent collections as well as the very architecture of the site, divided into modern spaces (such as the Palais and the Cube) and historic spaces (such as the Chapelle de l’Oratoire).
10 rue Georges Clemenceau, 44000 Nantes
Les Anneaux de Buren (“The Buren Rings”)
Photo: @denisem.44 on Instagram
To admire this work of contemporary art, head to the Island of Nantes. After crossing the Anne de Bretagne bridge, simply walk along the Loire River to feast your eyes on this installation. This collaboration between Daniel Buren and Patrick Bouchain dates back to 2007 and is composed of 18 steel rings measuring 4 metres in diameter. Tip: go at nightfall to see them light up in primary colours.
Quai des Antilles, 44200 Nantes
Galerie Melanie Rio Fluency
Photo: @anonfellini on Instagram
While the gallery represents no less than 14 artists yearlong, it also hosts a handful of contemporary art events and produces artistic projects on a regular basis. After settling into a former private townhouse for many years, it switched to a new and more modern space in 2017, designed by Agence Unité and Eduardo Souto de Moura Arquitectos.
3 place Albert Camus, 44200 Nantes
Visit American Vintage in Nantes
“I love my neighbourhood. Located at the heart of the city, it’s a wonderful place to live. Between the Théâtre Graslin and the Passage Pommeraye, there’s something for everyone. It’s a great place to stroll and discover new places: pastry shops, restaurants, wine bars. As for our store, I feel right at home there. It’s warm and cosy, a great place for friendly discussions. We are always delighted to welcome you inside.”
—Esther Aguesse, Store Manager
American Vintage Nantes
1, Rue Grétry
44000 Nantes, Pays de la Loire
+33 (0)2 28 02 13 24
Monday: 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Tuesday-Saturday: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
AMV Journal is a space dedicated to encounters, discovery and travel. Every week, explore the musts, portraits and inspirations of American Vintage and its creation studio.