Located in Paris’ 16th district at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, Le Musee d'Art Moderne (Museum of Modern Art) features a rich and complex collection of masterpieces with various artistic movements from the 20th and 21st centuries, including Fauvism, Cubism, and Surrealism. For earlier works, the museum’s collection focuses on artistic movements that developed in Paris, whereas the more modern pieces reflect movements throughout Europe. Works from all of the giants from these movements can be found there, notably pieces by Picasso, Duchamp, and Matisse. With over 10,000 pieces in the permanent collection and constantly-changing exhibitions, you’ll want to spend hours exploring.
Browse the temporary exhibitions
The first floor of the museum houses temporary exhibitions that change every few months or so. At any given time there can be up to four different exhibitions featured. These exhibitions feature artists, selected themes, or retrospectives. Past examples include a 200-item Andy Warhol presentation, a display of Chagall’s works from Russia, and an installation of Robert Rauschenberg’s paintings and found object sculptures. Check the museum’s website close to the date of your visit to find out what’s on display.
Be amazed at the larger-than-life paintings
One of the most striking aspects of this museum is the size of most of the paintings. You’ll often find yourself feeling very small in the presence of some of these works. From colorful concentric circles by Robert Delaney, to a multi-plated wall hanging in the decorative arts section to an enormous spider sculpture, your imagination and curiosity will certainly be sparked. One of the most magnificent of these giant works is La Fée Electricité (The Electricity Fairy), a larger-than-life painting by French artist Raoul Dufy. The masterpiece is made up of 250 panels and is so large that it has an entire room dedicated to it. It is even more fascinating because it is presented on curved walls which work to augment its grandeur.
Appreciate the richness of the permanent collection
The bottom level is dedicated entirely to the museum’s permanent collection. The collection is impressive not only in its size, but also in its diversity of artistic styles and mediums utilized. Starting with Fauvism in 1905, through Cubism and Surrealism, the Musee d'Art Moderne thoroughly captures the emergence and development of many European art movements. In addition, you can find traditional media like paintings and photographs, but also more unique presentations like films, sound recordings, and found object constructions. Be on the alert as you walk through the museum as certain pieces are so well integrated into their surroundings that you might not realize that they’re part of the collection.
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A must-add to your Paris museum list
This museum is a must-see for modern art lovers and novices alike. Owing to its ever-changing and relevant temporary exhibitions, its magnificent, awe-inspiring installations, and the incredible variety of its permanent collection, this is a museum worth its weight in gold. Your visit will fly by and you’ll leave amazed. To reach the museum, take subway line 9 and get off at stop Iena. Ticket prices for the temporary exhibitions vary from 5 EUR (5.50 USD) to 11 EUR (12.15 USD) depending on the collection. Reduced prices are available for those under 26, and entry is free for children under 18. Access to the permanent collection is free for all.
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