Before my holiday in the South of France, last September, I hadn’t heard of Fondation Maeght. From the moment I arrived I had a feeling of excitement and anticipation. I spent the whole visit walking around with a big smile on my face. I was truly in my happy place! Why did I feel like this? What was it about the museum that had such an impact on me? I think that it was a combination of three key factors: architecture, art and atmosphere.
The Maeght Foundation was the brainchild of art dealers, Aimé and Marguerite Maeght. Following the tragic death of their young son, they took a trip to the USA where they discovered the Barnes, Philips and Guggenheim collections. This inspired them to open their own private art foundation, a place where they could show modern and contemporary art but also somewhere that their artist friends could come and work and exchange ideas.
The architect was Josep Lluís Sert from Catalonia, Spain. He had previously designed Jean Miró’s studio. Painters and sculptors such as Giacometti, Miró and Chagall worked with him on the project and artworks were integrated into the building’s design from an early stage.
The outcome is a modernist building in the middle of wooded hills, overlooking the Mediterranean. Some people might say that it looks out of place but for me it fits its surroundings. I love the roof feature with its curves and the way that light reflects off the whiteness of the building. From the roof you are also rewarded with stunning views across the hills towards the Mediterranean.
There is art everywhere you look. My favourite spaces were outside. The Giacometti courtyard with his sculptures Walking Man, Standing Woman and Large Head. These sculptures were arranged by Giacometti himself. The Miró Labyrinth which was designed by the artist and his friend, ceramicist Josep Llorens Artigas.
Inside there are many more wonders to be seen, Giacometti sculptures, artworks by Marc Chagall, Pierre Bonnard and Ellsworth Kelly. There is also a large space for temporary exhibitions. When I visited this was an exhibition showcasing the work of French artist Jacques Monory. I’m very excited to find out that their next exhibition is all about the Giacometti family.
I think I’ve mentioned that I loved it here so much so that I think I could live here! If you are ever in this area you should go. It is located in the pretty hilltop village of St Paul de Vence whicb is also a perfect spot for lunch with a view. The Matisse Chapel in Vence is also just a short drive away.
For more information visit Fondation Maeght.
