What does the word ‘Paris’ evoke for you?
Fashion! Diversity, community, and opportunities.
Your first memory of Paris?
I would say that my first vivid memory of Paris is when I saw two guys kissing each other on the lips for the first time, at Châtelet.
Where do you feel most at home?
At the Gaité Lyrique!
What makes a true Parisian?
A true Parisian is someone who is proud of their city – who represents the city but is also an active part of it!
Who do you think best embodies Paris?
Me, Vinii Revlon! Because I represent a generation of racialized, Black, and Queer people who no longer want to apologize for existing.
Your favorite breakfast place?
Breakfast, no – but I love going to Chez Shen on Réaumur street with my House.
Where are the best boutiques?
As time goes by, I appreciate couture pieces more and more (Louis Vuitton, Mugler, etc.), but the thrift stores in the Marais are still a MUST for me!
Who would be your dream guests for a dinner party?
Rokhaya Diallo, Bintou Dembélé, Laverne Cox, Mother Nikki Gorgeous Gucci, Oprah Winfrey, and Mariana Benenge.
Where do you go out in Paris?
I go to the movies (MK2 Bibliothèque François Mitterrand) with my House, get drinks at Châtelet, and go to La Tête dans les Nuages to have fun.
What work of art best represents Paris?
The Gaité Lyrique. Because of its architecture it can host plenty of events in its many rooms – both exhibitions and lively, socially-engaged events that foreground minorities and their arts. It is a little like the balls I organize, which attract over 800 people and bring together worlds that have never crossed paths before.
What is the craziest thing you have heard or seen in the streets of Paris?
The craziest thing I have ever heard was a native French Parisian say, ‘Go back to where you came from!’
What can you only do in Paris?
Paris by night – and the parties, too, because there is always something going on, and the balls in Paris are like no other!
What do you miss most when you are far from Paris?
My bed, my family, and my PlayStation 5.
Your best advice for someone visiting the city?
The best advice is to ask a real Parisian about the best spots to go to that are not necessarily touristy, like Le Carré Voltaire in the 11th arrondissement (a restaurant with a DJ) or the Casa Cosa in the 9th arrondissement (an Italian restaurant with Parisian charm).
Vinii Revlon’s ‘Black & gold functional ball’ will be presented at Centre Pompidou-Metz Sunday, October 8, 2023. He will also present ‘The Halloween Party Ball II’ at the Gaîté Lyrique on October 28, 2023.
All photos and videos by Aliki Christoforou for Paris+ par Art Basel.
English translation by Jacob Bromberg.
Published on October 4, 2023.