Pharrell Williams has curated a new art exhibition in Paris titled FEMMES, which focuses on celebrating Black women. The exhibit is open at Perrotin Paris until April 19 and features works from 39 artists, primarily women, exploring themes of motherhood, identity, and self-expression. The project marks another collaboration between Williams and gallerist Emmanuel Perrotin, following their previous exhibitions Perspectives in 2008 and G I R L in 2014.
The exhibit presents a range of artwork, including sculptures, paintings, photography, and textile pieces. Sculptors such as Kapwani Kiwanga, Chiffon Thomas, Kennedy Yanko, and Betye Saar contribute works that highlight different aspects of form and material. Paintings from artists like Tschabalala Self, Kathia St. Hilaire, Theresa Chromati, Zéh Palito, and Esther Mahlangu showcase various styles and techniques. Photography is also a key component, with pieces by Zanele Muholi, Carrie Mae Weems, and Leslie Hewitt capturing personal and cultural narratives.
Textile art is prominently featured, with artists like Georgina Maxim and Tandiwe Muriu using fabric to explore history and tradition. Maxim repurposes textiles to reinterpret past stories, while Muriu incorporates African fabrics into her photographic compositions. As Louis Vuitton’s menswear director, Williams placed particular emphasis on the role of textiles in the exhibit.
Williams spoke about the exhibition’s intent, saying he wanted to use his platform to highlight the work of female artists. “To be an homage to Black women,” he said, reflecting on the importance of visibility and representation. Perrotin noted that Williams’ selections introduced new artists to the gallery, broadening the scope of the exhibition.
At the show’s opening on March 20, Williams described the exhibit as an “installation itself” and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to bring these works together. FEMMES is open to the public at Perrotin Paris through April 19.
