Silhouette cut-outs are the new selfies in Montmartre

This area became a tourist hotspot after the French movie Amélie was released, but Montmartre is one of my favourite neighbourhoods in the City of Lights. The numerous staircases, crooked yet quaint streets, and picture-perfect street lamps make the atmosphere absolutely unique. 

At the end of the 19th century, the hill became a hot spot for both unknown and renowned artists to set up their atelier. Today, some artists still gather there to create new works, although it is no longer the hotspot it used to be. 

An unusual thing to do is to get your silhouette cut by a Montmartre artist. Located behind the Sacré-Coeur Basilica, head to Place du Tertre, where artists set up stall every day. There, you’ll find many illustrators and cartoon drawers as well as silhouette artists. Using only a pair of scissors, the artist will cut a coloured sheet of paper in the shape of your profile. It’s a fresh alternative to selfies and something pretty cool to bring back as a souvenir.

Dozens of artists regroup on Place du Tertre every day to paint and sell their work. 

 

One of the silhouette-cutting stalls that states “similarity guarantee” on the board.

 

 My little brother’s silhouette cut out by one of the artists – there’s a striking resemblance indeed! 

 

The streets and many staircases surrounding the little square – don’t forget it’s on a hill.