Le 104

Le 104 Review

This offbeat art space, called Le Cent Quatre, is worth the trek to the 19e arrondissement for fans of contemporary art in the making. Opened in fall 2008 on the former site of the city morgue, this three-story complex is still a work in progress. Besides artist studios there is a restaurant, café, library, natural clothing boutique, secondhand shop, and an area for children up to age 6—all under one cavernous glass roof. Artists of all genres compete for one of seven ateliers (studio spaces), which they can occupy for up to a year. What they create is on view throughout the process; the ateliers take turns opening on various days to give you a peek. There are also performances and concerts that charge for entry. If you come at night, be aware of your surroundings; the 10-minute walk from the Stalingrad métro station can be a bit dodgy. Check the schedule on the Web site before you go to see what's on. The best times are weekend afternoons or weekdays between 4 and 6pm.