The Hotel des Arts supports contemporary artists, showcasing their paintings, photography and digital artworks. The permanent collection holds more than 250 pieces with a strong emphasis on Mediterranean art.
The cultural centre is housed inside an early 20th-century building that used to be the offices of local government officials. The gallery moved in during 1999.
Meander through the nine exhibition halls that are spread across 4,300 square feet (400 square metres). At any one time they can feature visiting exhibitions and temporary exhibits drawn from the permanent collection. Sometimes, works are presented around a specific theme or artist. In addition to paintings and photographs, you may see engravings, sculptures and videos. If you want to know more about the art on display, ask one of the guides.
There are many activities held in the gallery. Attend a talk with one of the artists to learn about the stories behind some of their works. Take family workshop classes and create your own masterpieces. Some of the activities are themed around the latest temporary exhibition.
Enjoy one of the regular music concerts that cover a variety of genres, including rock, classical and jazz. Join one of the guided tours through the centre on Wednesday afternoons. Check the website of the Hotel des Arts for up-to-date schedules.
Sit for a while in the attractive inner courtyard. The focal point is the fountain that’s surrounded by a small mazes of hedges.
The gallery is open every day except Monday, May 1, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Admission is free.
The Hotel des Arts is by the Place de la Liberté in the centre of Toulon and is easy to each by public transport. The Jardin Alexandre Premier, the Toulon Art Museum and the Liberty Theatre are among the nearby attractions.
