The French population showcases a genuine passion for art, particularly for contemporary creations. This was highlighted by a survey conducted by Beaux-Arts Magazine in partnership with Ipsos-BVA. The survey was released on January 22, coinciding with the magazine’s 500th issue.
Survey Insights into French Art Appreciation
The survey was carried out in December 2025, sampling 1,000 individuals to gauge their artistic preferences. The responses revealed interesting trends in art appreciation among the French:
- Photography: 45% of respondents showed a strong preference.
- Painting: 40% of participants favored this medium.
- Drawing: 26% selected this form of art.
- Fashion: Particularly popular among younger respondents.
Top Artists in French Art Preferences
The survey included a subjective list of 24 renowned artists, from which participants could choose their top three favorites. Among the options were iconic figures such as:
- Pablo Picasso (1881-1973)
- Claude Monet (1840-1926)
- Yayoi Kusama
- JR
- Daniel Buren
- Artemisia Gentileschi (1593-1654)
- Maurizio Cattelan
The results confirmed the enduring legacy of historical artists. Leonardo da Vinci emerged as the clear favorite, receiving 36% of the votes. Following him were Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Pablo Picasso, who remained top choices among art lovers.
Conclusion
This survey marks a significant moment for Beaux-Arts Magazine, illustrating the strong connection the French have with art. Despite the appreciation for art, the survey indicates that attendance at exhibitions may not reflect this enthusiasm. This discrepancy suggests potential areas for cultural engagement in the future.
