Matisse and his daughter Marguerite: a new exhibition in Paris?
Can we rediscover a master through the eyes of his daughter? That’s the challenge facing the Musée d’Art Moderne, which is devoting an exhibition as delicate as it is original to Henri Matisse and Marguerite, his eldest daughter and discreet muse. A touching, visually arresting tribute to both.
A close relationship brought to light
Marguerite Matisse was not only the painter’s daughter, she was also his model, supporter and artistic heiress. From childhood, she faced illness – a tracheotomy at the age of 7 left her with an emblematic black ribbon around her neck, repeated in several of her father’s works. In the selection presented, this intimate detail becomes a symbol of tenderness and fragility, embodying a deep paternal affection.
Portraits of Marguerite – reading, asleep, dreaming – punctuate the exhibition like so many stages in Matisse’s career. We pass through his Niçoise, Fauve and post-war periods, guided by the silent, constant figure of his daughter.
Marguerite: muse and artist in her own right
If Marguerite inspired, she also painted. The exhibition reveals a little-known facet of this “studio kid” who became an artist herself. Her works, rich in bright colors and assertive gestures, reflect a personal style, while bearing the mark of her father’s genius. She was also responsible for the artistic management of Matisse’s work, proving that her role went beyond that of muse.
The term “Nepo Baby” here takes on a noble and rare resonance: Marguerite didn’t just inherit, she passed on.
A technological and immersive end to the journey
The highlight of the visit: a virtual reality experience allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the legendary fresco La Danse. A total immersion in Matisse’s gesture, whose sketch can also be seen on site. A striking finale that combines classical art and contemporary innovation.
👉 Don’t miss: from April 4 to August 24, 2025, at the Musée d’Art Moderne in Paris.
