House of Fauvism

The Maison du Fauvisme, in the footsteps of Matisse and Derain

Behind its blue shutters, the Maison du Fauvisme tells the artistic adventure that brought Collioure into the history of modern art. A cultural space run by the tourist office, it is not a classic museum but a living place, entirely devoted to the movement born here in the summer of 1905. The Collioure audio-guided tour finds a natural extension here, to understand why the town became the city of painters.

Summer 1905, when Fauvism was born

That summer, Henri Matisse discovered Collioure and settled there to paint. He was joined by André Derain, and together they set colour free, laying pure, dazzling tones on the canvas inspired by the light of the bay. This chromatic explosion caused a scandal in Paris, where critics spoke of wild beasts, les fauves. Within a few months, Collioure thus became the cradle of one of the first great movements of twentieth-century art.

What to see

The venue shows reproductions and documentary material that place the Fauve masterpieces back in the very settings of Collioure, harbour, bell tower and rooftops, still recognisable today. It is an ideal starting point to follow, through the town, the Fauvism trail with its reproductions placed where the canvases were painted. A fine way to see Collioure through the eyes of the painters who immortalised it.

Practical information

The Maison du Fauvisme is in the heart of Collioure, a few steps from the tourist office it belongs to, and is easily reached on foot. Opening hours vary markedly with the season: it is advisable to check them with the tourist office before going. Access is mostly on the level; for entry conditions and the themed visits on offer, it is best to enquire on site.

Was Fauvism really born in Collioure?

It was in Collioure, during the summer of 1905, that Matisse and Derain painted side by side the canvases that would give rise to Fauvism, the first great movement of modern twentieth-century art.

What are the opening hours?

They depend on the season and on the tourist office's programme; to avoid any disappointment, check them directly with the office before your visit.

How can you follow the painters' trail in the town?

A Fauvism trail dots Collioure with reproductions set where the canvases were painted; the Maison du Fauvisme is the right place to start following it.