We are thrilled to announce GYPSY DADA, an extraordinary exhibition celebrating the radical fusion of Romani culture and Dadaist rebellion. Running from April 2 to April 14, 2025, at 59 RIVOLI in Paris, this exhibition brings together a powerful lineup of artists whose works challenge stereotypes and reclaim the narrative of Romani identity.
The term GYPSY DADA was first coined at Kai Dikhas in 2012 by artists Damian Le Bas and Gabi Jiménez to define a bold artistic movement rooted in defiance, humor, and the fight against centuries of discrimination. Drawing inspiration from Dadaism—the anti-establishment, avant-garde art movement born in the early 20th century—GYPSY DADA turns the absurdity of prejudice into powerful visual storytelling. This exhibition not only showcases the movement’s evolution but also pays tribute to Damian Le Bas, a pioneering figure in contemporary Romani art who passed away unexpectedly in 2017.
Damian Le Bas (1963–2017) was a British artist, whose work intertwined maps, collages, and mixed media to explore themes of migration, exclusion, and belonging. Educated at the Royal College of Art in London, Le Bas used his art to challenge ingrained stereotypes and elevate Roma and Traveller voices in the contemporary art world. His distinctive approach, layering historical imagery with personal narratives, remains a defining force in GYPSY DADA.
Gabi Jiménez, a French painter and sculptor, is known for his vibrant and politically charged Pop Art style. His work offers a deeply personal yet universally resonant portrayal of Romani life, mixing playfulness with pointed social commentary. Jiménez has dedicated his career to confronting injustices faced by marginalized communities, ensuring that Roma history and culture are represented with dignity and visibility.
Alongside works by David Weiss and Suisse Marocain, the exhibition will serve as a platform for discussion, reflection, and celebration. A special event on April 8 will mark World Roma Day 2025, honoring the resilience and contributions of Romani communities worldwide. The GYPSY DADA MANIFEST will be announced as part of the exhibition.
Curated by Moritz Pankok, the exhibition is organized by Painted Future in collaboration with the Kai Dikhas Foundation and Gabi Jiménez.
Hosted at the iconic 59 RIVOLI—a dynamic and vibrant art space, housing around 30 artists-in-residence. It features artist studios, contemporary art galleries, concerts, and cultural events. There has been good contact and regular exchange with the gallery of the 59RIVOLI centre in the heart of Paris not far from the Louvre for several years. The GYPSY DADA exhibition follows the successful Kai Dikhas exhibitions ‘Bonjour les Gadjé’ in 2022 and above all ‘AKATHE TE BESHEN – J’y suis, J’y reste’ in 2016, after which there were also exhibitions by French artists from 59Rivoli in Berlin.
The exhibition is easily accessible:
Metro: Châtelet (Lines 1, 4, 7, 11, 14)
RER: Châtelet (Lines A, B, D – Exit 11: Rue de Rivoli)
OPENING DATE: 05 April 2025 – 7pm
EXHIBITION: 02 April – 14 April 2025
ENTRY: Free
LOCATION: 59 RIVOLI, Rue de Rivoli 59, 75001 Paris
OPENING TIMES: Tue to Sun. 13:00 – 20:00
