What: The Anonymous Project, a found photography installation by British artist Lee Shulman, is currently on display at Samaritaine Paris, showcasing hundreds of vintage slides. The exhibit is part of a cultural exchange initiative by DFS, aiming to bridge the cultural experiences of Paris and Venice.

Why it is important: This exhibit not only introduces a unique art form to a retail environment but also represents a strategic move by Samaritaine Paris to position itself as a cultural and art hub. It reflects the evolving nature of department stores into spaces where art, culture, and commerce intersect, enhancing the shopping experience with cultural enrichment.

Lee Shulman's The Anonymous Project brings a unique art installation to Samaritaine Paris, part of a cultural exchange with Venice's T Fondaco Dei Tedeschi. The exhibit features vintage found photographs displayed in innovative ways, including a waterfall of images and large prints covering elevator banks. This initiative by DFS aims to merge the cultural identities of Paris and Venice, offering culinary demonstrations and promoting cross-pollination of brands. The project challenges traditional art exhibition spaces by placing intimate, everyday life snapshots among luxury brands, aiming to make art more accessible and relatable. The exhibit at Samaritaine Paris runs until April 23, before moving to Venice to coincide with the Art Biennale, introducing new works and a unique 360-degree installation. This approach by Samaritaine Paris to blend shopping with cultural experiences marks a shift towards department stores serving as dynamic cultural venues.

The Anonymous Project sits just past the Prada at Samaritaine Paris