Light and darkness coexist in the galleries and striking architecture of this monochromatic museum dedicated to the life and works of Jean Cocteau.
Walk through the bold black-and-white structure of the Jean Cocteau Museum and discover an extensive collection of artwork by the revered French artist. Spanning seven galleries, the museum presents an excellent collection of artworks, from Cocteau’s early avant-garde works on paper to his later career with film.
Note the museum’s intriguing architectural design. French architect Rudy Ricciotti created the museum’s façade to represent Cocteau’s contrasts and the play between light and dark in his work and personality. Enter the angular building and begin your exploration of the museum’s fascinating galleries. Join a French-language guided tour and discover nearly 1,000 works spanning Cocteau’s career. Much of the museum’s collection was donated by Séverin Wunderman, an avid collector of the French artist’s work. The collection encompasses seven different sequences, including Perception, Loves, Space/Time and Monsters and Myths.
Admire the great artist’s early works of pencil, pastel and watercolor on paper. See clips from Cocteau’s later film works, such as films from the Orphic Trilogy, and temporary exhibits. Visit the museum’s documentation center to find a collection of documents relating to the artist, including books, magazines, catalogs and monographs.
Take a break for coffee or a snack in the museum’s on-site café. Pick up souvenirs, gifts and books at the museum’s shop. Stroll around the spacious courtyard, which is laid out with black and white pebbles in Cocteau’s designs. Understand the connection between Cocteau and Menton as you explore the museum’s surroundings, such as the Bastion Museum and the town’s Marriage Hall, decorated with Cocteau’s murals.
Find the Jean Cocteau Museum on the French Riviera. There is an admission fee and additional fees for guided tours. Educational workshops and special events are also held throughout the year. The museum is closed on Tuesdays and several holidays.
Combine your visit to the Jean Cocteau Museum on Menton’s gorgeous waterfront with a stroll along the Baie du Soleil beaches.
