The New National Museum of Monaco launches its first major exhibition of the year at Villa Paloma, inviting visitors into a rich artistic dialogue between past and present…

The Feeling of Nature: Contemporary Art in the Mirror of Poussin opened this week, placing the work of 17th-century master Nicolas Poussin in conversation with artists spanning four centuries.

Nature, a central theme in Poussin’s work, forms the backbone of the exhibition. Widely regarded as one of the greatest classical French painters, and perhaps the most Italian in spirit, Poussin devoted much of his career to exploring landscapes not merely as scenery but as living expressions of emotion and poetry. This lyrical approach to nature continues to inspire generations of artists, and the exhibition highlights how his vision resonates today.

Curated by Guillaume de Sardes, the show brings together nearly 40 artists across multiple disciplines. Paintings by Poussin are presented alongside contemporary works including photography, video and immersive installations. Exceptional loans from major institutions such as the Prado Museum in Madrid and the Louvre enrich the display, while works from the museum’s own collection complete the experience.

Visitors are guided through six thematic sections, from storms and nightscapes to forests, deserts and volcanic terrains, creating a journey through different interpretations of the natural world. Rather than focusing solely on environmental anxiety, the exhibition celebrates the beauty and emotional power of nature, encouraging reflection and appreciation.

Running at Villa Paloma from February the 13th, this ambitious exhibition reinforces Monaco’s cultural dialogue between heritage and contemporary creation, while offering audiences a poetic and thought-provoking exploration of humanity’s enduring relationship with nature.

Image: Communication Department / DR