Summary
Musée Renoir, 19 Chem. des Collettes, 06800 Cagnes-sur-Mer, France
Phone: +33 4 93 20 61 07
Musée Renoir Overview
In 1907, the renowned Impressionist painter Pierre Auguste Renoir acquired Les Collettes, a charming stone farmhouse nestled among olive trees, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean. Captivated by the region’s vibrant colors and remarkable light quality, Renoir made this location his own.
Pierre Auguste Renoir
As a leading figure of Impressionism, alongside artists like Claude Monet and Édouard Manet, Renoir transformed traditional painting. His visit to Aix-en-Provence in 1882, where he encountered the works of legendary Renaissance artists, inspired a significant shift in his artistic style. This journey marked a pivotal moment in his career, leading him to pivot from landscapes to focusing on the female form, giving rise to a collection of magnificent nudes, appreciated by collectors of his time.
The House
The two-story house features a straightforward design with small rooms, high ceilings, and expansive windows that open to views of the bay and surrounding hills. The interiors boast classic bourgeois villa characteristics, with red tiled floors and minimalistic furnishings. The house displays 14 of Renoir’s paintings, allowing visitors to connect with his creative process and the inspirations derived from the region’s beauty.
Renoir’s Atelier
Renoir’s grand atelier on the first floor is particularly striking. A large easel, accompanied by a wooden wheelchair and painting materials, takes center stage against a backdrop of a stone fireplace. Despite suffering from advanced rheumatoid arthritis, Renoir’s commitment to painting remained unwavering until his passing on December 3rd, 1919.
Changing Exhibits in the House
Annual exhibits showcasing Renoir’s life feature artifacts sourced from significant estate sales, enriching the experience for visitors. These displays consist of fragile items, including family albums, bills related to house maintenance, and personal letters, presenting an intimate glimpse into the artist’s life.
Practical Information
Musée Renoir
19 chemin des Collettes
Cagnes-sur-Mer
Tel: 00 33 90 04 93 20 61 07
Website
Open: Wednesdays to Mondays
June to September: 10 am – 1 pm & 2 pm – 6 pm (gardens open 10 am – 6 pm)
October to March: 10 am – 12 pm & 2 pm – 5 pm
April and May: 10 am – 12 pm & 2 pm – 6 pm
Closed: Tuesdays, December 25th, January 1st, and May 1st
Admission: Adults: 6 euros; Free for under 26 years
Admission combined with the Château Grimaldi in Cagnes-sur-Mer: 8 euros.
How to Get There
By Car: Take the A8 autoroute, using exits 47/48, and follow signs to Centre-Ville, then to Musée Renoir.
By Bus: From Nice, Cannes, or Antibes, take bus 200 and disembark at Square Bourdet. It’s a brief 10-minute walk through Allée des Bugadières to Av. Auguste/Renoir.
About Renoir in Essoyes
Renoir, having spent much of his early life in the picturesque village of Essoyes in Champagne, created numerous outdoor scenes here. Visitors can explore his atelier, learn about his life, and enjoy the charm of the village that inspired so much of his work.
More to See Around Essoyes
While in Essoyes, consider visiting nearby Colombey-les-Deux-Eglises, where Charles de Gaulle resided. There, you can tour his house and the insightful Memorial museum dedicated to the esteemed French leader. Additionally, extend your exploration to discover other hidden gems in Champagne, such as Voltaire’s chateau.
