Ever since my days in art school, I’ve always been fascinated by artists who despite their solo endeavors came together and worked side-by-side communally. Such places like Montmartre and La Ruche were part of this enchanted ideal of Paris that inspired my eventual move here. Typically, the building’s inside is not open to the general public, so I was delighted to tag along on a WICE member’s Walk & Visit recent visit for an exclusive peek at both the interior and gardens.

Walking through the lush quirky garden and live/work spaces, one couldn’t help take in the mixture of smells of oil paints with fresh grass while the bustling sounds of the city blare in the distance. Named for it’s beehive like shape, it’s not hard to imagine all the buzzing that’s gone on here over the years.

First created as a temporary rotunda by Gustave Eiffel in 1900, the building was dismantled and relocated to the 15eme by Alfred Boucher, a sculptor, who wanted to establish studios and exhibition space to young artists such as notables Marc Chagall, Diego Rivera, Max Jacob, Soutine, and so many others. Like Montmartre, a colorful history of bohemia and art endured since then – shifting and changing with the times.

La Ruche is still home to artists. Some choosing just to work there, some still live on site. Regular exhibitions in their gallery feature international and local artists – and it’s a great opportunity to check out this historic space. 

This Saturday, March 23 WICE offers a printmaking workshop at La Ruche:
23 Mar 2019 ~ 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Location: Artists Studio, 75015 Paris (Metro: Convention)
Click here to for workshop information and registration >>
Now you can also be part of the hive making art!

WICE Walks & Visits are a great way to learn more about this cities cultural history and offerings. Click here to see what's coming up!