Musée Paul-Dini

Situated in the heart of Villefranche-sur-Saône, the Musée Paul-Dini, or Musée Paul-Dini de Villefranche-sur-Saône, is a gem for art lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. This municipal museum, named after the renowned collectors Muguette and Paul Dini, offers a captivating journey through the world of modern and contemporary art, particularly highlighting the artistic movements and talents connected to the Rhône-Alpes region.

The Origins of Musée Paul-Dini

The story of the Musée Paul-Dini dates back to 1863, initiated by the then-mayor of Villefranche-sur-Saône, Jean-Baptiste Boiron, and the lawyer Loyson de Chastelus. Originally housed in the town hall, the museum found its first dedicated space in 1893 in the former grain hall known as Grenette. Over the years, the museum's collection grew through numerous donations, state deposits, and acquisitions, encompassing a variety of artworks, sculptures, and even collections of mineralogical and archaeological significance.

However, the museum's activity waned post-World War II, remaining relatively dormant until the 1970s. It wasn't until 1984, with the creation of an art library and the organization of art workshops, that the museum began to regain its vibrancy. The turning point came in 1998 when Muguette and Paul Dini made their first donation of paintings, leading to the museum's reestablishment as a municipal institution in 2001. Since then, the museum has amassed a permanent collection of over 1,200 works and hosts two to three temporary exhibitions annually.

The Grenette and Cornil Spaces

Between 1999 and 2001, the Grenette space underwent significant renovations, funded by the city of Villefranche-sur-Saône, the Rhône-Alpes region, and the Rhône department. The interior spaces were expanded, and a new glass roof was installed, adding a modern touch to the historic building. In 2003, the museum received the prestigious Musée de France label.

The museum further expanded in 2005 with the opening of the Cornil space, located adjacent to the Grenette. This former textile factory, operational until 1985, was transformed into a modern exhibition area, doubling the museum's exhibition and communication space from 1,800 to 3,100 square meters.

A Panorama of Rhône-Alpes Art

The Musée Paul-Dini offers a comprehensive overview of the artistic evolution in Lyon and the Rhône-Alpes region from 1865 to the present day. The collection begins with the 19th-century landscape painters influenced by the Barbizon school, such as Hector Allemand, Charles Joseph Beauverie, and Auguste Ravier. The museum also showcases works by prominent Lyonnais artists like Pierre Puvis de Chavannes and Jules Flandrin, who contributed to the region's rich artistic heritage.

Moving into the 20th century, the museum highlights the symbolist painter Auguste Morisot and the dynamic post-World War I movements, including the Ziniar group and the Nouveaux. The collection also features works by Suzanne Valadon, known for her robust depictions of the human form, and the cubist Albert Gleizes, whose theories on geometric abstraction influenced many artists in the region.

A Platform for Contemporary Art

The Musée Paul-Dini is not just a repository of historical art; it is also a vibrant platform for contemporary creation. The museum's permanent collection includes works by artists who have continued to explore figuration, abstraction, and new technologies since the 1980s. This commitment to contemporary art ensures that the museum remains a dynamic and relevant institution in the art world.

The Art Library and Contemporary Art Library

The museum's art library represents major artistic movements in France since the 1950s, featuring works by artists such as Pierre Alechinsky, Alexander Calder, and Niki de Saint Phalle. The contemporary art library, with its collection of 5,375 books and two archival fonds, provides a valuable resource for researchers and art enthusiasts.

Temporary Exhibitions

The Musée Paul-Dini is renowned for its engaging temporary exhibitions, which have included retrospectives on artists like Jean Couty and Armand Avril, as well as thematic exhibitions exploring landscapes, symbolism, and modern art in Lyon. These exhibitions offer visitors fresh perspectives and insights into the diverse world of art.

In conclusion, the Musée Paul-Dini is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the rich artistic heritage of the Rhône-Alpes region. Its extensive collection, dynamic exhibitions, and commitment to contemporary art make it a cultural beacon in Villefranche-sur-Saône. Whether you're an art aficionado or a casual visitor, the Musée Paul-Dini promises an enriching and inspiring experience.