We got a sneak peek of the NCMA’s brand new exhibit — Alphonse Mucha: Art Nouveau Visionary — and found our new favorite style of art. Opening tomorrow, Sat. 23, the exhibit features the work of one of the most celebrated artists in Paris at the turn of the 20th century.
Czech-born Alphonse Mucha created a distinct approach to art, using curving lines, harmonious compositions, and muted colors — it became known as “le style Mucha.” Now, his style is synonymous with art nouveau.
The museum worked with Alphonse’s great grandson, Marcus Mucha of the Mucha Foundation, throughout the process of bringing the exhibit to Raleigh. The NCMA was able to do the design for the exhibit in-house — note the quotes framed on the walls throughout the experience.
Raleigh is the exhibition’s first stop on its tour, and is the Mucha Trust Collection’s first major US tour in 20 years. Tickets are on sale now for the exhibit that runs through Jan. 23, 2022.
The collection includes illustrations, ornamental objects, theater posters of superstar actress Sarah Bernhardt, and self portraits of the artist.
Alphonse was close friends with French sculptor Auguste Rodin (the artist behind the several bronze sculptures in the museum’s permanent collection) and a few of Rodin’s sculptures are placed within the exhibit.
Visitors can also view 3 works done by local artists, commissioned by the NCMA to reinterpret some of Alphonse’s iconic pieces.
Artists Alisha Locklear Monroe, Tori “FNoRD” Carpenter, and Lakeshia T. Reid created posters commentating on what beauty is today. The works can also be found in installations in North Hills and at the Citrix office building Downtown.
Get ready for November’s First Friday — more details will be coming soon about an artist meet + greet and a poster giveaway at the Citrix office building display.
