Grenoble in Photos: Integrated Works of 19th and 21st Century Artists

The Musée de Grenoble (Grenoble Museum) is one of the most prestigious art museums in France.

Its collections of ancient, modern and contemporary art, span more than 700 years from the 13th to the 20th century!

I visited the Musée de Grenoble on a cold and cloudy day, when the mountains surrounding Grenoble were playing hide and seek, just popping out from under cloud cover for a moment or two before disappearing.

That’s why I really appreciated the 19th century paintings of Grenoble.  These works illustrate the beautiful mountain ranges that surround Grenoble, the ones that are THISCLOSE, but yet, I can’t get a good look at.

Here they are with a little help from my 19th century friends:  Laurent Guetal, Jean Achard, Charles Bertier, Edouard Brun and Ernest-Victor Hareux, infused with a little of my own “artistic touch” (ahem…Instagram).

OK so perhaps the combined medium of 19th century paintings and 21st century Instagram won’t be the next major art movement….but you can’t blame a girl for being inspired!

In addition to the regular collection which features 1500 paintings in 65 rooms, there are also two temporary exhibits held each year at the Musée de Grenoble.  The works of Philippe Cognée are currently on display until February 2013.  I loved this exhibit, especially his darker works which show that he doesn’t always view humans in a positive light.  There is an entire room dedicated to paintings at a slaughter-house, all similar, but slightly different.  It is a very powerful room! Unfortunately no photos are allowed in the temporary exhibits, so you’ll just have to trust me and believe me when I say that this one is definitely worth checking out. Following this exhibit, Alberto Giacometti will be the next exhibit which runs from March 9, 2013 until June 9, 2013.

Know Before You Visit the Musée de Grenoble:

• It is open everyday from 10:00 – 18:30, except on Tuesdays.
• Regular priced admission for adults is a very reasonable €5.  Children under 18 are free.
• Admission is free on the first Sunday of every month.
• If you are a casual art observer as I am, allow about an hour to see all the works.  If you’re a serious art lover you will need more time.
• Visit the Musée de Grenoble’s website for further info.

You may also be interested in visiting the Festival of Lights in Lyon if you are visiting Grenoble in December.