Each summer, the Fragonard House actively pursues its cultural policy by organizing temporary exhibitions in its museums in Grasse, ranging from painting to photography to costumes. In 2023, the cultural program of the Fragonard museums particularly honors women through three exhibitions to be discovered until October 8, 2023.
“I Declare to Live by My Art”
The Jean-Honoré Fragonard Museum dedicates its painting exhibition to the rediscovery of the Lemoine sisters and their cousin Chaudet, an extraordinary sibling group of women artists as brilliant as they are mysterious. Carole Blumenfeld, the curator of the exhibition titled “I Declare to Live by My Art,” had to engage in an actual treasure hunt to find and secure the loan of numerous paintings held in both public and private collections.
Enigmatic, as brilliant as they are secretive, the Lemoine sisters, Marie-Victoire (1754-1820), Marie-Élisabeth (1761-1811), Marie-Geneviève (1771-1845), and Marie-Denise (1774-1821), and their cousin, Jeanne-Élisabeth Chaudet (1767-1832), daughters of Parisian master wigmakers, were trained by the best Parisian painters, friends with prominent artists, and supported by a host of selected personalities. They established themselves on the Parisian art scene solely through the merits of their brushes and their mutual inspiration.
The exhibition highlights the personal journey of these exceptional women artists who succeeded in breaking the conventions of their time and climbing the social ladder. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover portraits, self-portraits, and other works that reflect their unique talent and significant contribution to the art of the 18th century.
“Siamo Agata”
The museum’s garden level hosts a photographic exhibition dedicated to Saint Agatha, the protector of Catania in Sicily and a symbol of female resistance. Titled “#SiamoAGATA: The Breasts of Resistance,” this exhibition highlights the influence of Saint Agatha in the fight against the contemporary martyrdom experienced by women in different regions of the world.
Often depicted in classical painting holding two breasts on a platter, Saint Agatha was tortured and lost her breasts for refusing the advances of the Consul of Sicily. Revered since her death in 251 AD, she continues to inspire contemporary artists. Through the works of several photographers, this exhibition explores the strength and courage of women in the face of contemporary challenges, including cancer and the fight against a macho culture.
The photographers participating in this exhibition are:
- Carmen Cardillo
- Geatano Gambino
- Egidio Liggera
These committed artists have captured poignant images that highlight the strength, determination, and resilience of women facing oppression and injustice. The exhibited photographs offer a deep reflection on issues of gender, violence, and freedom, while celebrating the power of sisterhood and female solidarity.
“Païsan.o Paysan.nes”
Finally, the Museum of Costume and Jewellery presents an exhibition dedicated to the Provençal peasant costume, masterfully staged by the curators Eva Lorenzini and Clément Trouche. Titled “Païsan.o Paysan.nes,” this exhibition celebrates harvests, reaping, nature, and the peasants from the 18th to the early 20th century. It showcases everyday and timeless pieces rarely exhibited, allowing visitors to discover the history and richness of traditional Provençal costume.
Thus, these three exhibitions offer a unique opportunity to dive into the fascinating world of past women artists, discover the powerful symbolism of Saint Agatha, and explore the traditions of the Provençal peasant costume !
