In Saint-Chamond, the former industrial site of the Marine steelworks is getting ready to transform into a museum that’s set to shake up the traditional art scene. Le Mausa, Museum of Urban and Street Art, will officially open its doors on May 24, and let's just say it’s going to stand out! With its 10,000 m² of space, including 2,000 m² completely free for everyone to enjoy, this cultural giant is promising to be a unique gem in the French museum landscape. The goal? To make art accessible to all, with no fuss or stuffiness.
© Eddie Colla - Mausa Vauban
International artists including Banksy
It's Stanislas Belhomme, a passionate urban art entrepreneur, who is behind this exciting project, which has already been successfully tested in Neuf-Brisach and Bitche. Here, he's aiming big, really big: rotating exhibitions of international artists every six to eight months, fun activities, live performances, workshops for kids and adults, and a bar-restaurant with a terrace that's just waiting for sunny days and DJ sets to become the go-to after-work spot. Even Banksy will be involved, which says a lot!
© Denis Meyer - Mausa Vauban
Goal: attract 150,000 visitors a year
But what truly makes this place special is its ability to retain the raw soul of the old hall, with its industrial vibe and oversized spaces. The first exhibition, named “Nomade,” will showcase 25 artists from all walks of life, eager to bring the walls and viewers to life. And this is just the beginning: Belhomme is already dreaming of Brooklyn for a future New York branch.
© SETH - Mausa Vauban
With a goal of 150,000 visitors per year, this hybrid museum aims to make Saint-Chamond a new epicenter of urban culture. In short, street art is coming off the streets, but it doesn't lose any of its spirit. It's just getting cozy... in Halle 07.
