Matisse at the Grand Palais: over 200 works reunited for a monumental retrospective in spring 2026

Paris is about to experience a rare artistic moment. In spring 2026, the Grand Palais will host an exceptional retrospective dedicated to Henri Matisse. The event also marks the long-awaited reopening of this iconic building after several years of renovation.

A Matisse retrospective in the heart of Paris

From March 24 to July 26, 2026, art lovers can rediscover the work of the French master. The exhibition brings together nearly 200 major works from collections around the world. It offers a complete panorama of the artist’s career.

The Grand Palais became the ideal setting for this artistic celebration. The vast spaces beneath the glass nave make for a spectacular setting. What’s more, the natural light that bathes the premises sublimates the vibrant colors characteristic of Matisse.

This retrospective comes at a symbolic time for the Parisian venue. After four years of renovation, the building is reopening to the public. As a result, this event represents a double renewal for French culture.

“Matisse spent his life searching for the perfect light and color, which the Grand Palais naturally offers under its century-old glass roof.”

Emblematic works not to be missed

Among the pieces on show, La Tristesse du roi (The King’s Sadness ) takes center stage. This late work from 1952 illustrates the artist’s mastery of cut-out gouaches. It also testifies to the artist’s undiminished creativity, despite his illness.

The famous Blue Nudes are part of the tour. These silhouettes cut from wallpaper represent an artistic revolution. Indeed, Matisse himself described the technique as “drawing with scissors”.

• Fauvist and Classical oil paintings
• Rare preparatory drawings and sketches
• Monumental cut-out gouaches
• Illustrated books and first editions
• Textiles, stained glass and decorative objects

The story of a lifetime of creativity

The exhibition at the Grand Palais follows a clear, accessible chronology. It begins with the young Matisse’s first academic paintings. It then guides visitors to the Fauvist experiments that shocked Paris in the early 20th century.

The Intérieurs de Vence are a moving chapter in the exhibition. These luminous works reflect the artist’s Mediterranean serenity. Yet they were created at a time when his health was in serious decline.

The scenography highlights the different techniques explored by Matisse. Painting, sculpture, drawing and decorative arts are harmoniously combined. The public can now grasp the full scope of his creative genius in a single location.

Each room features detailed labels and accessible explanations. Families will also find materials adapted to the youngest visitors. In this way, art becomes comprehensible to all ages.

Practical information for organizing your visit

The Grand Palais is located on avenue du Général Eisenhower in the 8th arrondissement. Access is easy from the Champs-Élysées Clemenceau metro station. However, to avoid waiting in line, we strongly advise you to book online.

The exhibition is open Monday to Sunday, from 10am to 8pm. On certain evenings, the exhibition is open until 10 pm. The full price is around 15 euros for an adult.

To make the most of your visit, allow at least two hours on site. Weekday mornings are less crowded. Also, the early morning slots guarantee a more intimate experience with the works.

Why this exhibition is so memorable

This Matisse retrospective is much more than just a temporary exhibition. It celebrates an artist who transformed modern painting. It also accompanies the rebirth of the Grand Palais after its architectural metamorphosis.

Visitors discover exceptional loans from international museums. Some paintings rarely leave their original collections. This is therefore a unique opportunity to see them reunited in Paris.

Emotion remains at the heart of the visitor experience. Matisse’s explosive colors speak directly to the heart. They speak of joy, light and the tireless quest for beauty.

This major cultural event is already attracting international media attention. Bookings have been pouring in since the program was officially announced. The Grand Palais confirms its status as Europe’s temple of art.