‘Is this doable?’: why political paralysis threatens an ambitious Brussels arts complex

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 Cinémathèque Française in Paris has temporarily closed all four of its screening halls for a month due to a bedbug infestation, which was notably reported during a masterclass featuring Hollywood actress Sigourney Weaver. Audience members had complained about being bitten, prompting the closure.

Tate Britain is currently showcasing an exhibition that highlights the artistic rivalry between JMW Turner and John Constable, two prominent figures in British art history. The exhibition reflects on their contentious relationship, marked by moments such as Turner's strategic use of color to overshadow Constable's work at the 1832 Royal Academy exhibition. This rivalry raises questions about the nature of competition in the arts and whether it fosters or hinders creativity.

The EU has reacted to US President Donald Trump's recently unveiled 28-point peace plan for Ukraine, which is perceived as favoring Russian interests, prompting concerns in Brussels and Kyiv. Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prévot emphasized the need for a coalition that includes financial commitments, especially as Belgium holds significant frozen Russian assets in Euroclear.

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.