A Capitol Hill art gallery dedicated to fostering a creative link between Seattle and Paris is marking its first anniversary with a significant new exhibition. Galerie Orsay Paris-Seattle, located in the historic Loveless Building on Broadway, is showcasing the work of acclaimed French photographer Hervé Lassïnce, bringing a contemporary Parisian perspective to the Pacific Northwest art scene.
The exhibition, which opened on November 5th, represents a milestone for the gallery and its founder, Simon Lhopiteau. It serves as both a celebration of the gallery's successful inaugural year and a reaffirmation of its mission to bridge two distinct cultural landscapes through art.
Key Takeaways
- Galerie Orsay Paris-Seattle is celebrating its one-year anniversary on Capitol Hill.
- The gallery has launched a new exhibition featuring Paris-based photographer Hervé Lassïnce.
- The show runs from November 5th through December 20th at the gallery's Broadway E location.
- Owner Simon Lhopiteau aims to connect the artistic energies of Seattle and Paris.
- Lassïnce's work is recognized for its exploration of themes like love, identity, and human connection.
A Cultural Bridge on Broadway
Since opening its doors, Galerie Orsay Paris-Seattle has established itself as a unique cultural venue in the neighborhood. It is an expansion of owner Simon Lhopiteau's original Paris gallery, which he founded in 2004. Lhopiteau, an art historian and curator, was inspired by Seattle's vibrant atmosphere and natural surroundings during a visit five years ago, leading him to establish a second home for his gallery here.
The decision to bring a piece of the Parisian art world to Seattle was driven by a desire to create a dialogue between the two cities. The gallery aims to introduce Pacific Northwest audiences to established and emerging European artists while also creating opportunities for cross-cultural exchange.
From Paris to the Pacific Northwest
The Seattle gallery is located at 713 Broadway E in the Loveless Building, a notable architectural landmark on Capitol Hill. This location places it at the heart of one of Seattle's most dynamic and artistically rich neighborhoods, providing a fitting backdrop for its international focus.
The anniversary celebration and the launch of the Hervé Lassïnce exhibition underscore the gallery's commitment to this vision. The event brings together local art enthusiasts and introduces them to a significant voice in contemporary French photography.
Introducing Hervé Lassïnce to Seattle
The centerpiece of the anniversary is the new show featuring Hervé Lassïnce. A prominent figure in the Paris art scene, Lassïnce is known for his deeply personal and evocative photography that explores universal human experiences.
Themes of Connection and Identity
Lassïnce's body of work often touches upon themes of love, identity, and the tender complexities of human connection. As a gay artist with a global impact, his photographs offer an intimate perspective that resonates across cultural boundaries. His pieces, such as "Love in Ashes" and "Tribute to David Hockney," showcase a style that is both direct and deeply empathetic.
According to gallery owner Simon Lhopiteau, the choice to feature Lassïnce was a natural fit for the gallery's mission.
"We’re thrilled to bring Hervé’s work to Seattle," said Lhopiteau. "His photographs embody a quiet honesty and human tenderness that transcend cultures and geography. This exhibition connects Seattle’s dynamic creative energy with the spirit of contemporary Paris."
The exhibition is seen as a vital step in "bridging two vibrant art scenes from Paris to Seattle," Lhopiteau added, highlighting the gallery's role as a cultural conduit.
Exhibition Details
- Artist: Hervé Lassïnce
- Location: Galerie Orsay Paris-Seattle, 713 Broadway E, Seattle
- Dates: November 5th to December 20th, 2025
- Opening Reception: Thursday, November 5th, from 5 PM to 8 PM
A Year of Connecting Art Worlds
The past year has seen Galerie Orsay Paris-Seattle carve out a distinct niche within the city's art community. By focusing on international artists with a strong connection to Paris, the gallery offers a different flavor from many local institutions. This approach has attracted collectors and art lovers interested in a global perspective.
Lhopiteau's initial impressions of Seattle—recalling the ability to "breathe good, fresh air" between the mountains and water—have translated into the gallery's ethos. It seeks to be a space where fresh ideas and artistic expressions can be shared openly, creating a refreshing addition to the local scene.
The gallery's presence on Capitol Hill contributes to the neighborhood's long-standing reputation as a hub for creativity and progressive culture. By hosting artists like Lassïnce, it not only enriches the local artistic offerings but also reinforces Seattle's position as a city with a global cultural outlook.
The Hervé Lassïnce exhibition is open to the public through December 20th, offering Seattle residents and visitors a unique opportunity to engage with the work of a significant contemporary French artist and celebrate a gallery that is actively building a bridge between two of the world's great creative cities.