Le BAL is an independent art space in Paris’s 18th arrondissement, tucked into a lane off Place de Clichy. Its exhibitions explore photography, film, video and other forms of documentary imagery, with shows spread across two floors. The venue also has a specialist photography bookshop and a café serving brunch and lunch. You can make a visit about the art, browse the books, or settle in for coffee and a meal. The café can fill up, so arrive near opening time if you want a table.
Exhibitions across two floors
Le BAL is an independent arts venue in the 18th arrondissement, off Place de Clichy. It focuses on photography, film, video and new media, with exhibitions that examine how images represent reality. The galleries occupy two floors of a former ballroom and provide 350 square metres of exhibition space.
Shows change over time and can bring together artists from different backgrounds. The programme has included documentary photography and work that looks at historical, political and social questions. Events have also included performances, debates, screenings and meetings with artists, alongside educational programmes. Check the current programme to see what will be on during your visit.
A bookshop for photography
The specialist bookshop has a broad selection of photography books across different genres. It gives you a chance to spend more time with the subjects and image-making explored in the gallery, or to browse independently of the exhibitions. The venue’s wider programme connects photography with film, video and other forms of contemporary imagery.
The café at Le BAL
The café and restaurant are part of the same venue as the gallery. Brunch and lunch are among the options, with granola, pancakes, eggs and an egg sandwich mentioned on the menu. The café sits away from busy roads and looks onto a small green playground. It can fill up, so arriving near opening time is a practical choice if you want to eat there.
You can combine a gallery visit with a meal or a drink, then browse the bookshop before leaving. Le BAL is a non-profit independent arts initiative with a stated focus on discovering and mentoring future artists.
Preguntas frecuentes
What does Le BAL show?
Its programme focuses on photography, film, video and new media. Exhibitions change, and the venue also holds events such as screenings, debates and artist meetings.
Where is Le BAL in Paris?
It is in the 18th arrondissement, off Place de Clichy, at 6 Impasse de la Défense.
Is there a café at Le BAL?
Yes. The café serves brunch and lunch, with options including granola, pancakes, eggs and an egg sandwich. It can fill up, so arrive near opening time for a table.
How much is admission to Le BAL?
A visitor has reported a full-price ticket of €7, with discounts for students and some other categories. Check current admission details before your visit.
