From June 6, 2025 to January 4, 2026, the Grand Palais will host an original exhibition devoted to Niki de Saint Phalle and Jean Tinguely, two emblematic figures of contemporary art, in collaboration with the visionary Pontus Hultén. This artistic journey highlights the indestructible bond that united this mythical couple, on both a personal and artistic level, as well as Hultén’s decisive influence on their careers.
The flagship exhibition of the Grand Palais reopening program
Closed for four years now, the Grand Palais is giving us a glimpse of its cultural agenda after the reopening. After announcing the return of the Grand Palais des Glaces and the world’s largest indoor ice rink, the cultural year will be marked by a major exhibition dedicated to Niki de Saint-Phalle and Jean Tinguely.
Niki de Saint Phalle and Jean Tinguely left their mark on art history with their daring and provocative works. Their creations, such as Niki’s famous Nanas and Jean’s monumental sculptures, embody a rebellion against established norms. Together, they fused their talents to create works that blend humor, social criticism and technical innovation. The Fontaine Stravinsky, located near the Centre Pompidou in Paris, is an emblematic example of this fruitful collaboration.
The exhibition will also focus on Pontus Hultén, the first director of the Musée national d’art moderne at the Centre Pompidou, who played a crucial role in the couple’s international recognition. A visionary with a passion for disruptive art, he supported Saint Phalle and Tinguely by organizing major exhibitions and integrating their works into the museum’s prestigious collections. His commitment has given unprecedented visibility to these extraordinary artists.
The exhibition at the Grand Palais will offer a historical and playful journey, inviting visitors to rediscover the duo’s emblematic works. Tinguely’s animated machines will rub shoulders with Saint Phalle’s colorful sculptures, accompanied by never-before-seen archive films and exceptional documentation. This artistic journey will plunge the public into the fascinating universe of these visionary creators.
See you there!
Niki de Saint Phalle, Jean Tinguely, Pontus Hultén – June 6, 2025 to January 4, 2026 – Grand Palais