André Masson exhibition in the Centre Pompidou, Metz

To celebrate the 100th anniversary of Surrealism, the Centre Pompidou-Metz dedicated an exhibition from March 29 to the 2nd of September 2024 to the Surrealist painter André Masson (1896-1987). Entitled “There is no finished world”, the exhibition is a retrospective of the painter’s work, featuring over 200 works chosen from the world’s greatest collections. His major contribution to surrealism and modern art makes him one of the most important figures of the 20th century.

There is no finished world

“There is no finished world” is a reference to one of his emblematic paintings, this retrospective offers an in-depth view of Masson’s work, bringing together over 200 pieces selected from the world’s most prestigious collections. More than a painting, “There is no finished world” incites us to rethink our relationship to the world and to ourselves. It is an invitation to expand the limits of artistic experimentation, by delving into the depths of the unconscious.

This retrospective illustrates the multiple aspects of André Masson’s work, as well as his strong connections with the intellectuals, poets, filmmakers and artists of his time. It combines both paintings and drawings, offering a global vision of his artistic production. Particular attention is paid to Masson’s illustrated books, including his lithographs for works such as Antonin Artaud’s “L’Ombilic des limbes” (1925) and Louis Aragon’s “Le Con d’Irène” (1928).

Automatic drawing

The chronological presentation starts with representations of forests and the first erotic drawings made a few years after the First World War, whose impact had a profound effect on Masson’s work as a whole. From his technical innovations, such as the creation of automatic drawing and sand paintings, to his determining influence on the beginnings of American abstract expressionism, Masson emerges as a key figure of this artistic period, rich in change.

The exhibition also spotlights Masson’s contributions to books, with engravings and lithographs such as L’Ombilic des limbes, by Antonin Artaud, in 1925, or Le Con d’Irène. It also features a reconstruction of the painter’s library, an intellectual sanctuary, blending metaphysics and explosive poetry, highlighting books by figures close to Masson such as Georges Bataille or Michel Leiris.

Art as a Tool for Social Critique and Liberation

In addition to his prowess as a painter, Masson’s diverse talents extended to sculpture, theater, and opera set design, as well as critical discourse and extensive reading. He was a free and rebellious spirit, whose creative output was driven by the conviction that “the only justification for a work of art […] is to contribute to the expansion of the human being, to the transmutation of all values, to the denunciation of social, moral and religious hypocrisy, and consequently to the denunciation of the ruling class, responsible for imperialist war and fascist regression”.

As a relentless innovator, Masson fearlessly experimented with new techniques to express his vision of the world. His unique style, inspired by his passion for mythology, philosophy and poetry, is characterized by uncommon formal freedom and evocative power. Masson puts his art at the service of his convictions. Through his art, Masson actively engaged in denouncing social hypocrisy and advocating for individual liberation, reflecting his commitment to his convictions.

Don’t miss this exhibition, available until the 2nd of September, showcasing this pivotal yet under-recognized figure within the Surrealist movement. Explore our large collection of artworks on our website. To stay up to date with the latest artistic trends, check out our magazine regularly!