The French language is spoken by around 25 million people in France and around 70 million people in the francophone world. French is the fourth most spoken language in the world. French art and music have a long and illustrious history. French art is known for its realism and its use of light and color. French music is known for its use of harmony and its use of melody.
The French have a long and illustrious history of creative expression. From the Impressionists to the Nouvelle Vague, French artists have been at the forefront of artistic innovation for centuries. This rich heritage is on display in museums all over the country, from the Musée d’Orsay in Paris to the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon. Here, you can explore the art of the past and see how French artists have shaped the world of art today.