From October 2 to 4, 2025, the Golden Gate Palace – Paris 12th, will host the long-awaited second edition of the Artisans of Excellence Show, dedicated to decorative arts professions. More than a trade fair, this event stands out as a vibrant manifesto in favor of contemporary French crafts, a rare scene where matter takes on a voice, shaped by the hand of visionary creators.
A majestic showcase of Parisian heritage, the Palace of the Golden Gate embodies the golden age of Art Deco in all its splendor. Built in 1931 for the International Colonial Exhibition, this iconic building designed by architect Albert Laprade stands out for the richness of its architecture and the finesse of its decorations. Listed as a historic monument, it brings together the greatest names in the decorative arts of the time, from Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann to Jean Dunand, including Raymond Subes and Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, in a virtuoso dialogue between know-how, precious materials and inspirations from elsewhere.
Monumental frescoes, ironwork, mosaics, and custom-made furniture create a sculptural setting of rare elegance. It is in this exceptional setting, and more precisely in the heart of the Forum, its former function room with its pyramidal ceiling and frescoes by Ducos de la Haille, that the 2nd edition of the Artisans of Excellence Show takes place. A vibrant celebration where heritage and contemporary creation, tradition and audacity meet, revealing the timeless beauty of craftsmanship in a place full of soul and history.
An immersion in exceptional know-how
Worn by Isabelle de Lasteyrie, founder of Isabelle's Agency, and Miguel Duterrier, creator of the magazine Singular Signatures, the show was born from a common desire: to offer a showcase to daring artisans who tirelessly reinvent ancestral gestures and innovate with audacity.
After the success of the first edition in 2024 with more than 3 visitors in three days and a 200 m² discovery trail, this new session announces many new features: more than two thirds of the exhibitors are renewed, a new space dedicated to fabric editors orchestrated by the Ombre agency and a light scenography by Oscar Lucien Ono, figurehead of Maison Numéro 600.
Virtuosity, material and emotion
The exhibition, as elegant and concise as ever, highlights some sixty hand-picked creators, artists, manufacturers, and workshops. Artistic ironworkers, wood and straw marquetry artists, lapidary sculptors, ceramists, master glassmakers, rope and enameled metal craftsmen… All work to enhance the material in an approach that combines technical rigor, aesthetic innovation, and environmental awareness.
Among the highlights, the Lighting Gallery, illuminated by decorator Oscar Lucien Ono (Maison Numéro 20), will offer a fascinating journey through sculptural creations, true functional works of art. Visitors will discover rare pieces, on the border between design, architecture and luminous poetry.
Another highlight of this edition: a immersive textile space, designed by the Ombre agency and masterfully crafted by Ateliers Jouffre, a renowned partner of the show. In six spectacular alcoves, visitors will be invited to immerse themselves in a theater of textures, colors and know-how, discovering the many faces of exceptional fabric.
On the course, the Eco-responsible fresco by Frédéric Imbert will bring a clear breath of fresh air. Made from sustainable materials, this committed work demonstrates the ability of artisans to embrace contemporary issues and incorporate beauty into a responsible approach.
The 2025 edition will also mark a turning point with more than two-thirds new exhibitors, from all over France and beyond. Ceramicists, leather marquetry artists, metal, wood, textile and lacquer artists, but also master gilders and glassmakers: a demanding, cross-disciplinary and cutting-edge selection, designed to highlight the excellence of the gesture in all its diversity.
A place worthy of the event
Listed as a Historic Monument, the Palace of the Golden Gate offers an exceptional setting worthy of the works presented.
Architects, designers, luxury brands, collectors, journalists, and discerning enthusiasts will find this event a veritable laboratory of inspiration. Combining knowledge transfer, professional exchanges, and sustainable commitment, the Artisans d'Excellence 2025 Show stands out as an essential hub for those interested in the beauty of gesture, the intelligence of materials, and innovation applied to artistic craftsmanship.
In an era hungry for meaning and authentic craftsmanship, this show reminds us that artisanal excellence is neither outdated nor static. It is alive, in motion, driven by men and women who, in the shadow of their workshops, shape the beauty of tomorrow every day.
Ema Lynnx
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1 and 2/@nicolas-borel – 3/ @aboutyouandco – 4 and 5/@Stephane Ruchaud
