Fondation du Doute - Fluxus Exhibitions

The Fondation du Doute: The Fluxus Spirit in the Heart of Blois

The Fondation du Doute is the only art center in France entirely dedicated to the Fluxus movement, an international artistic current born in the 1960s that advocates for the abolition of borders between art and life. Inaugurated in 2013 at the initiative of artist Ben Vautier and the City of Blois, this unique venue occupies a former 19th-century convent in the heart of the royal city.

An Exceptional Permanent Collection

The permanent collection, entirely renewed in 2022, constitutes one of the most important Fluxus ensembles in Europe. Nearly 350 works and documents by 50 international artists are presented over 1,000 m2, gathered by Ben, Gino Di Maggio, with the collaboration of the Fondation Mudima of Milan and Caterina Gualco. Among the represented artists are Joseph Beuys, Robert Filliou, George Maciunas, Yoko Ono, Nam June Paik, Daniel Spoerri, Ben Vautier, and Wolf Vostell.

A Temporary Exhibition Pavilion

In the heart of a 19th-century cloister, a fully glassed pavilion hosts a program of temporary exhibitions, conferences, concerts, and video screenings. Access to this pavilion is free, allowing everyone to discover the most contemporary artistic proposals in constant dialogue with the Fluxus heritage.

The Wall of Words and Café Fluxus

The exterior facade of the building is adorned with Ben's famous Wall of Words, a true urban art work visible from the street. Inside, Café Le Fluxus, entirely designed by Ben as a total work of art, is both a dining space, a place for socializing, and an artistic programming venue.

A Year-Round Event Program

The Fondation du Doute offers a rich and varied program each year of temporary exhibitions, performances, participatory workshops, artist residencies, and special events that keep the iconoclastic, playful, and transdisciplinary spirit of the Fluxus movement alive. The venue actively participates in the Nuit des Musées, the Journées du Patrimoine, and major cultural events in the city.