Au Pastel
In the heart of old Metz, on rue Taison, Au Pastel is not quite a gallery like the others: it is first a picture-framing workshop, paired with a space selling engravings. People step in to have a work framed, to choose a signed print, or simply to browse the frames and impressions. A craftsman's address on a human scale, open Tuesday to Saturday.
A framing workshop first of all
Au Pastel presents itself first as an art-framing workshop: you entrust a watercolour, an engraving or a drawing to it to find the right frame, with a craftsman's advice. This framing know-how gives the place its identity, halfway between a shop and a studio. It is the kind of address where people talk mounts, mouldings and materials as much as art, and where each piece is handled with care.
A collection of art engravings
Alongside framing, Au Pastel offers a collection of art engravings for sale, works by regional, national and international artists. Regional printmakers represented include Patricia Gerardin, Hélène Roux and Renée Kisiel. It is a chance to take home from Metz an original, signed print, often more affordable than a unique piece, and to leave with a genuine artwork rather than a mass-produced souvenir.
A stop in the Taison quarter
Rue Taison is one of the oldest pedestrian streets in Metz, a stone's throw from Saint-Étienne Cathedral and the covered market. A stop at Au Pastel pairs easily with a stroll through this historic core, among shops and medieval façades. As the gallery is small, it is best to check the current display or available engravings before coming, and to take time to talk with the framer.
Questions fréquentes
What are the opening hours?
The gallery is open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am–12:30pm and 2pm–7pm, and closed on Sunday and Monday. As hours may change, it is best to check before visiting.
What can you find there?
An art-framing workshop and a collection of signed engravings by regional, national and international artists, offered for sale. You can have a work framed there as well as buy an original print.
Where is Au Pastel located?
On rue Taison, in the historic pedestrian heart of Metz, very close to Saint-Étienne Cathedral and the covered market.
