According to Jonathan Haddad, co-founder and design director of this Parisian art gallery, the idea of creating it arose after years of curating unique collections for clients. This passion deepened when he began focusing more on a specific portfolio of collections with his future partner, a respected collector of art and design. At that time, they realized they had gathered a wide and interesting variety of design and art pieces, so motivated to exhibit these magnificent works of art in a special environment, they sought a space that was suitable and subtle, and that acted as a perfect backdrop that could enhance their beauty. Hence, that place needed to function as a platform for exhibition and interaction, allowing art lovers to engage and acquire these precious historical masterpieces.

An exquisite selection of pieces from different periods and styles

Haddad is in charge of curating and art directing the gallery. He has a significant, vast, and eclectic background in design and art that allows him to innovate and establish new connections beyond the “classic white boxes” typical of a conventional art gallery. Therefore, at Sceners Gallery, he carefully combines pieces from different periods and styles, enhancing both visual and thematic cohesion.

Moreover, what truly sets them apart is their approach to the history, provenance, and character of each artwork. They value the stories that each piece carries, all shaped by time, deepening engagement and enriching the experience they offer to their visitors.

This careful consideration of an object’s backstory is paramount for Haddad, who emphasizes the relevance of this unique and differential value of the gallery.

Their first exhibition: Chaos and Harmony

In these four months of existence, Sceners Gallery has presented its inaugural exhibition, featuring renowned European designers such as Jean Prouvé, Marzio Cecchi, and Pierre Jeanneret, alongside Japanese and American masters like George Nakashima, Rei Kawakubo, and Shiro Kuramata, as well as Brazilian modernists like Oscar Niemeyer and Jorge Zalszupin, among others.

“Chaos and Harmony encapsulates the essence of our collection, establishing a dialogue between different mediums and eras.” Haddad

All exhibited pieces are distinct, standing out for their beauty and the stories they hold. Despite their potential utility, they shine for their aesthetic appeal and, above all, as authentic works of art. Primarily, because their historical value allows them to be displayed on a pedestal, even if it’s, for instance, a school chair. Their idea is to let history and stories be a more powerful aspect than the mere aesthetics of a piece, as they serve as a testament to the creator’s genius.

“Our idea is to let history and stories be a more powerful aspect than the mere aesthetics of a piece.” Haddad

An industrial container housing artistic content

We love the physical space of this gallery due to its unique and striking industrial aesthetic. In fact, Sceners Gallery is located in a historically significant 1909 loft, protected due to its cultural and historical importance.

The architectural team that undertook the project was affiliated with the same group that worked after Gustave Eiffel, known for their pioneering contributions to industrial architecture. It features brutalist elements that create a compelling dialogue with the classic Haussmannian ornaments of the interior.

This juxtaposition of styles enhances the unique character of this space, making it a perfect container for art and design exhibitions.

During the restoration, the historical “scars” on the walls were carefully preserved and restored, as it was essential for them to retain these marks of time while infusing them with new life. This approach not only respects the architectural heritage of the loft but also adds a layer of depth and texture, providing a historical canvas for the exhibited art.

The gallery can be visited by appointment and is well worth the visit.

(*) Photos by Jan Liégeois provided by Sceners Gallery.