Hidden within the vibrant Goutte-d’Or neighborhood, the Institut des Cultures d’Islam (ICI) whispers stories of contemporary art intertwined with the rich tapestry of the Muslim world. The ICI isn’t just a building. It’s a vibrant hub where creativity flourishes and cultures converge. Opened in late 2013, the Institut des Cultures d’Islam stands as a testament to Paris’s commitment to embracing diverse cultural expressions.
The ICI is more than just an arts center. It’s a space where contemporary art dialogues with the Muslim world, fostering understanding and appreciation. The ICI’s two main buildings, ICI Léon and ICI Stephenson, each contribute uniquely to this mission. ICI Léon, nestled on rue Léon, houses exhibition spaces, classrooms, and a charming restaurant and tea room centered around a peaceful patio. ICI Stephenson, located on rue Stephenson, boasts even more expansive exhibition areas, classrooms, and a tranquil hammam. A unique feature of ICI Stephenson is its prayer room, managed by the association of the Grande Mosquée de Paris.
The Institut des Cultures d’Islam’s commitment to contemporary art shines through its diverse programming. Exhibitions, concerts, conferences, literary cafes, film screenings, and cultural activities fill its calendar. Visitors can explore a wide range of artistic expressions, from calligraphy to street art and beyond. The ICI also offers language courses in Arabic and Wolof, further enriching the cultural experience. From September 15 to December 11, 2022, the ICI hosted “Urban Text: This Space Called Balkans.” This exhibition showcased the work of artists from the Balkans, reflecting the region’s political and social transformations and their impact on architecture and monuments.
The ICI has also championed emerging artists through its artist residency program. Since 2011, nearly 220 French and international artists inspired by Islamic cultures have participated, resulting in the creation of approximately 40 new works. The renowned Moroccan photographer Hassan Hajjaj was among the first artists to participate in this program. Over the years, the ICI has curated around 30 exhibitions. These exhibitions have covered a wide range of themes and artistic approaches, showcasing Islamic cultures from Africa to Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The ICI typically presents two temporary exhibitions each year.
The construction of the ICI, a project costing 22 million euros, was fully funded by the City of Paris. Interestingly, the prayer room at ICI Stephenson was later sold to the association that owns the Grande Mosquée de Paris for 2.2 million euros. The Institut des Cultures d’Islam continues to be a beacon of cultural exchange. It invites visitors to delve into the vibrant world of contemporary art inspired by Islamic cultures.