A morning at the MAEGHT Foundation
August 28, 2024
It’s a warm summer morning at the Fondation Maeght in Saint Paul de Vence, the art capital of the French Riviera.
Nestled in a forested area next to the charming village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, the significant landmark of the MAEGHT Foundation in the world of modern and contemporary art stands majestically amid the surrounding trees.
Celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, the museum has been dedicated to showcasing a rich collection of artworks from renowned artists, reflecting the vision of its founder, Aimé Maeght since its inception in 1964.
The Maeght Foundation is the first private foundation for modern and contemporary art in France. It was designed by Catalan architect Josep Lluis Sert whose intention was to create a symbiosis of the building, the art inside, and the surrounding nature. The project became a true collaboration with the help of Joan Miro, Alberto Giacometti, Georges Braque, Pierre Tal-Coat, Marc Chagall, and Raoul Ubac.
Upon entering the landscaped grounds, you are greeted by the outdoor sculpture garden creating a harmonious dialogue between the artworks and their natural surroundings. The outdoor art experience continues in the Miró Labyrinth which allows for a mindful dialogue between art and nature.
The building overlooks the Mediterranean and is an artistic architectural symbol piquing creative curiosity. In this serene atmosphere you can easily get lost in the legacy of some of the most notable artists in the world.
A tale of friendship based on shared passions
Currently on temporary exhibition until October 6th to commemorate the 60th anniversary is the ‘Bonnard-Matisse a friendship’ exhibition. This captivating exploration of artistic dialogue between these two iconic figures of 20th-century art. Highlighting the vibrant use of color and techniques that both Pierre Bonnard and Henri Matisse employed in their work, their distinct styles intersect showcasing how they influenced one another.
After all, they were friends.
A friendship that was based on mutual admiration and their shared commonality of pursuing artistic vocations instead of their perspective law studies. A rather rebellious avant-garde for that time to break out of societal expectations and family pressure!
Pierre Bonnard in Henri Matisses’s workshop in Nice, 1929.
Henri Matisse, Jeune étudiant, Masque 1, 1952
Pierre Bonnard, Nu de dos a la toilette.
Henri Matisse, Le gouter (Golf de Saint-Tropez), 1904
Pierre Bonnard, L’ete 1917
A contemporary exploration
The exhibition showcases pieces from established and emerging artists. It is one of the largest collections of 20th-century art in Europe with works from Bonnard, Braque, Calder, Giacometti, Barbara Hepworth, Kandinsky, and Joan Miró, to name a few. The collection also includes contemporary artists such as Adami, Bergmann, Chillida, Kelly, and Mitchell inviting audiences to explore how contemporary creators interpret the relationship between the environment and artistic expression.
Pablo Palazuelo, Omphale II, 1962
Ellsworth Kelly, Red, Yellow, Blue
Alexander Calder, La Dansesuse, 1944-1969
The play between light and art creates the context of the artistic dialogue at the Maeght Foundation. Seen in the back is Marc Chagall’s La Vie, 1964, and on the left are sculptures Femmes de Venise by Alberto Giacometti, 1956.
The MAEGHT Foundation is not just a gallery; it is a cultural hub that fosters dialogue between artists and the public. The foundation’s educational initiatives reflect its dedication to cultivating a love for art and inspiring future generations. As luxury interior designers, we not only source art for our clients but also continually experience art for a deeper understanding and inspiration in design.
As the exhibition unfolds, the MAEGHT Foundation continues reaffirming its role as a vital institution in the art world. By showcasing historical and contemporary works, it bridges the gap between past and present, allowing visitors to experience the evolution of artistic thought.
The current exhibition is a celebration of art’s ability to connect us with the harmony of nature, each other, and ourselves. We highly recommend the visit!
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