Alexandra Weinress

Founder, The Seen Paris

Tell us about you/your company—and how did you get into this line of work? 

I suppose my introduction to explaining what I do starts with what I don’t do. I don’t describe myself as a tour guide, but rather as an “experience creator.” I operate a bespoke art-based experience service in which I design and lead customized itineraries based around fine art and design, tailored to each client and their unique interests. No two experiences are the same, and that’s just how I like it! I got into this work a few years ago, when I wanted a change of direction in my career. I worked in contemporary art galleries for many years in both Paris and my hometown of LA, but I was missing a sense of interaction with the public. I also simultaneously became very interested in the bespoke travel movement, and realized there was an opportunity to share the best things about art and Paris in a way that perhaps feels slightly out of reach to most travelers on their own. I decided to use the network, knowledge and connections I had acquired in the art world, and fuse that with my passion for Paris. There’s nothing I love more than transmitting my love of this city through the meaningful lens of art. 

What is the sweet spot of your expertise?

I like to find those intersections where quality meets cool, where past meets present (and future!). I think my experiences offer people the unique opportunity to see the major players in the blue-chip gallery scene, while also getting a sense of what’s to come in emerging galleries. And l’d be remiss if I didn’t mention that these visits often take place in exquisite & historic architectural spaces.

What’s the entry level to talk to/work with you?

I offer a free consultation call to potential clients who are interested in booking an experience. This gives me a better sense of their interests and expectations, and affords them the opportunity to learn more about what I do. If they are interested in moving ahead, I draft a proposal for a deposit of 150 €. This goes toward the final fee for half-day or full-day experience rate, should the client choose to proceed. 

What is exciting in the Parisian art gallery scene right now? What and who should be on everyone’s radar?

The art scene in Paris has had a renaissance in recent years, and continues to grow more robust as new contemporary galleries, museums, artist collectives, and art fairs establish themselves here. It’s an extremely exciting time to be seeing new art in this city as it reclaims its historic place as a capital of the avant-garde. There are so many great galleries and art spaces in Le Marais and in the northern parts of Paris, like Belleville and suburbs such as Pantin. For example,  Lafayette Anticipations  (an arts foundation founded by the Galerie Lafayette group) in Le Marais offers exciting contemporary art shows and happenings. They recently had a show by one of my current favorite French artists, Jeanne Vicérial, who is creating incredible work that fuses fashion and sculpture. There are also numerous international galleries that never had an outpost in Paris that are now establishing spaces here – major ones like  David Zwirner  along with smaller spaces like the formerly LA-based  Fitzpatrick Gallery.  

A favorite experience/itinerary you’ve planned that best represents your philosophy and access…

I recently had a client that had a very specific interest in textile design and innovative use of materials. She also had been to Paris many times and was extremely knowledgeable about the art scene, so I knew I had to dig deep to find something new for her. I was thrilled to be able to organize a wonderful visit to an artist collective called  Poush, which is located in the northern outskirts of the city and not generally open to the public. We got to meet with 3 artists working with textiles in their studios, and see their creations in process. It was a really special experience for my client (and for me!). 

Favorite hotels you love and always recommend?

Paris is a city of hotels, so it’s VERY hard to narrow it down to just one or two! I live in Montmartre, so I often recommend  Hotel Rochechouart  for its Art Deco design and amazing rooftop (it’s also very affordable). I also suggest other boutique hotels like  Hotel Particulier de Montmartre  (only 5 suites in the former Hermès family home),  Hotel Providence, and  Hotel des Grands Boulevards. If we’re going 5-star or Palace Hotels, I adore  Maison Souquet  near Montmartre for its over-the-top, sumptuous decor, or the  Maison Proust  in Le Marais for its romantic elegance. The LVMH-owned  Cheval Blanc is more modern and has a noteworthy art collection. And of course, who doesn’t love a classic like  Le Ritz  or  Le Crillon? A great thing about Paris hotels is all of the ones named above feature wonderful bars where even non-guests can enjoy the sublime surroundings! 

In your adopted hometown, what is your favorite…

 – Neighborhood restaurant/hangout: it is nearly impossible to name a favorite, but I love restaurants like  Le Maquis  &  Aléa  in the 18th arrondissement for creative bistronomie cuisine. I also am a die-hard fan of Juveniles in the 1st arrondissement for comforting, French fare with a flair. 

– For people-watching: One of my favorite new wine bars,  Fugazi, is located in the über hip 11th arrondissement and has a very cool and fashionable crowd, with the added bonus of great small plates and wine.  L’Avant Comptoir du Marché  in Saint Germain also has loads of passersby and a stellar wine selection. 

– For fine dining:  Pétrelle in the 9th has a wonderful and creative tasting menu at dinner for less than 100 €, in a beautiful, candlelit dining room. Another fantastic and original option is  Sota Atsumi’s Maison, located in an atypical building in the 11th. If you want Michelin stars, the recently reopened  Tour d’Argent  never fails. 

– For after hours: Sister Midnight in Pigalle is one of my favorite bars for its glam-rock vibe, killer cocktails, and frequent drag performers. When I’m feeling like a classic,  Harry’s Bar—the oldest cocktail bar in Paris—always does the trick. And for those adventurous few looking to push the envelope and stay out even later, the vinyl bar  Fréquence  in the 11th stays open until 4 AM on Fridays & Saturdays. 

Paris museums: Underrated, overrated, personal favorite, recent discovery? 

In addition to being a hotel hub and a restaurant repository, Paris is a marvel of museums. While I wouldn’t go so far as to say that iconic, world-renowned museums like the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay are overrated, they do tend to be overrun with tourists and it can detract from the experience. I think it’s special to venture beyond the classics. I won’t give away all my secrets, but some of my favorites museums in the city include the  Petit Palais,  the  Musée des Art Décoratifs, as well as wonderful house museums like those of legendary French painters such as the  Musée Gustave Moreau  & the Musée Jean-Jacques Henner, which I recently discovered. For contemporary art, the exhibits at the Bourse de Commerce are often superb. 

What is something you wished we all knew or were better at as travelers? 

If I could give one piece of advice to travelers, it would be: be curious. I often find people exploring things at surface level, without pushing themselves to go beyond the obvious. Try to find the things the locals are doing and seek out authentic experiences. Especially in Paris, people tend to stick to a very narrow idea of what this city is, and they risk missing out on so much. You’re not going to get a sense of what makes this city great by waiting in line to see the Mona Lisa or for a coffee at Café de Flore. Do your research, learn, and make the effort. It’s worth it. 

How do you want people to contact you?

Through my website:  theseenparis.com  or IG: @theseenparis