Paris’s Cinémathèque Française closes doors over bedbug infestation

A long-lost painting by Peter Paul Rubens, depicting the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, was sold at auction for $2.7 million after being discovered in a Paris townhouse during a routine visit by an auctioneer last year.

French artist JR plans to wrap Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge over the Seine River in Paris, in fabric next June, marking a tribute to the iconic art project by Christo and Jeanne-Claude from 40 years ago. This installation will last for three weeks and spans 232 meters (761 feet).

Paris's arthouse cinemas are facing a significant decline in audience numbers, prompting a need for reinvention to avoid permanent closure. One cinema in the Champs-Elysées has implemented a 'modular' economic model, allowing for quick transformations of screening rooms into reception areas to adapt to changing demands.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to meet with French President Emmanuel Macron in Paris on Monday, as confirmed by the French presidential office. This meeting comes amid ongoing military escalations, including Ukraine's recent drone attacks on Russian oil tankers, which are believed to be part of a covert operation to transport sanctioned oil.

The Cinemathèque Française in Paris has closed all four of its screening halls for a month due to a bedbug infestation, which was notably observed during a master class featuring Hollywood actress Sigourney Weaver. This closure is intended to facilitate deep cleaning and ensure a safe environment for patrons.

A 39-year-old man with six prior convictions has been charged as the fourth suspected member of the gang involved in the daylight theft of France's crown jewels from the Louvre. The Paris prosecutor confirmed that all suspected participants are now in custody following the heist that occurred on October 1, which resulted in the loss of jewels valued at approximately €88 million.

Kanal, a contemporary art museum in Brussels, is 95% complete and on schedule for its opening on November 28, 2026. However, discussions have shifted from when it will open to if it will open due to plans to reduce its budget.