There are few settings more naturally suited to an art exhibition than the French Riviera. Add the waterfront, the boats of Beaulieu-sur-Mer and the late-summer light of the Côte d’Azur, and you have the setting for Art Beaulieu, the annual contemporary art and design fair returning to the town’s port from 17 to 20 September 2026.
Now in its 22nd edition, Art Beaulieu brings together a selection of approximately 30 artists, offering visitors the opportunity to discover distinctive works, meet artists and explore contemporary art and design in an informal, accessible setting. The event is presented as a meeting place for artists, collectors, art enthusiasts and the simply curious—an approach that makes it appealing whether you are actively looking for a new piece or merely enjoy discovering creative work.
Art, Design and the Mediterranean Setting
The exhibition takes place on the Esplanade du Port at Beaulieu-sur-Mer’s marina, where the atmosphere is rather different from that of a traditional indoor gallery. Visitors can combine an appreciation of contemporary creativity with a stroll along the harbour, views across the Mediterranean and the easygoing rhythm of one of the Riviera’s most attractive coastal towns.
The exhibition takes place on the Esplanade du Port at Beaulieu-sur-Mer’s marina, where the atmosphere is rather different from that of a traditional indoor gallery. Visitors can combine an appreciation of contemporary creativity with a stroll along the harbour, views across the Mediterranean and the easygoing rhythm of one of the Riviera’s most attractive coastal towns.
The fair’s emphasis on contemporary art and design also reflects the changing ways in which people experience and collect art today. Alongside established artistic approaches, exhibitions such as Art Beaulieu provide space for individual expression, unusual materials, sculpture and design-led work. The appeal is not necessarily about arriving with a shopping list; sometimes it is about encountering something unexpected.
According to the event organisers, this year’s selection includes artists such as Guillaume Roche, Yuichi Ono and Somsak Hanumas, as well as Mougins Art Galerie. The renewed selection is being presented under the artistic direction of Myriam Annonay Castanet, giving the 2026 edition a fresh chapter while retaining the fair’s established identity.
A Chance to Meet the People Behind the Work
One of the most appealing aspects of Art Beaulieu is its emphasis on encounters. Rather than simply moving from one display to another, visitors have the opportunity to engage with artists and exhibitors, ask questions and learn more about the ideas, techniques and inspirations behind the work.
One of the most appealing aspects of Art Beaulieu is its emphasis on encounters. Rather than simply moving from one display to another, visitors have the opportunity to engage with artists and exhibitors, ask questions and learn more about the ideas, techniques and inspirations behind the work.
For collectors, this can be a valuable opportunity to discover new names. For residents and visitors, it offers a chance to experience contemporary art without the formality—or financial expectations—sometimes associated with major art fairs. And for anyone who enjoys the creative side of Riviera life, it is another reason to spend time in Beaulieu-sur-Mer during a particularly beautiful period of the year.
The event’s free admission makes it especially easy to drop in, whether for a dedicated visit or as part of a day exploring the town, its waterfront and nearby attractions.
Practical Information
Art Beaulieu 2026
Art Beaulieu 2026
Dates: Thursday 17 to Sunday 20 September 2026
Opening hours: 10:00 am–7:00 pm daily
Location: Esplanade du Port, Port de plaisance, boulevard Maréchal Leclerc, Beaulieu-sur-Mer
Admission: Free
The official opening is scheduled for Thursday 17 September at 5:30 pm, with the inauguration to be carried out by Roger Roux, Mayor of Beaulieu-sur-Mer.
Art Beaulieu is a reminder that the Riviera’s cultural calendar extends well beyond its celebrated museums, villas and summer festivals. Sometimes, the best way to discover something new is simply to follow the waterfront, wander into an exhibition and see what catches your eye.
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