Historically, Fernand Léger and the New Realists have never crossed paths. Artistically, however, there is a undeniable link between the works of the cubist and those of the movement by Niki de Saint-Phalle, Martial Raysse, and Yves Klein. It's from this observation that the Musée du Luxembourg takes its cue, bringing us a grand and colorful exhibition that mixes all these creations in a fascinating dialogue.
A conversation through time
Yellow, green, red, blue (Klein, of course), as soon as we step into the exhibition, we’re welcomed by a true explosion of color. Room by room, the museum invites us to discover the diverse and pop art of Fernand Léger and his undeniable impact on artists as renowned as Roy Lichtenstein, Daniel Spoerri, or Christo and Jean-Claude. Each of the first's creations is exhibited alongside one of the latter's works, in extremely striking parallels, showcasing the connections that art weaves between generations. The similarities are sometimes so obvious that it's hard to believe that all the works aren't the result of a single artist.
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Exceptional Works
Through themes as diverse as elements, objects, the representation of life or the Beautiful, the exhibition invites us to discover monumental pieces that make us stop in our tracks. Among our favorites is the gigantic statue of Miles Davis envisioned by Niki de Saint Phalle, the Blue Venus by Yves Klein, and of course, The Cyclist by Karel Appel, which sparkles in your eyes and brings a smile to your lips. These paintings and sculptures challenge our perceptions, our relationship to history and to life in a more general way.
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Karel Appel, The Cyclist, 1969, Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, Nice © City of Nice / Muriel Anssens © Karel Appel Foundation / © Adagp, Paris, 2025
Apology of Color
In this exhibition, which we almost wish was a bit longer, we (re)discover bold, daring, and fresh artworks that liberate themselves from traditional codes and techniques. Through the quotes and methods unique to each featured artist, a whole new vision of art and creation unfolds before us. These pieces invite us to delight in contemplation time and time again, offering an authentic ode to color. It’s a gift that makes perfect sense, especially when we consider that one of the adages…is the creation of Fernand Léger was: « Let’s bring in color, a vital necessity like water and fire.»
Fernand Léger, The Four Cyclists, 1943-1948, National Museum Fernand Léger, Biot © GrandPalaisRmn / Gérard Blot © Adagp, Paris, 2025
All Léger !
Luxembourg Museum
19, rue de Vaugirard – 6th
Until July 20, 2025
More info