## Niki de Saint Phalle – The 1980s and 1990s: Art Unleashed at the MNBAQ in 2025 – Canada NewsWire
QUEBEC CITY, Oct. 15, 2023 /CNW Telbec/ – The Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ) is thrilled to announce the upcoming exhibition, “Niki de Saint Phalle: The 1980s and 1990s,” opening on May 24, 2025. This retrospective exhibition will explore the artistic journey of this influential French-American sculptor, painter, and filmmaker, focusing on her prolific and vibrant creations from the 1980s and 1990s.
“We are delighted to showcase the explosive energy and artistic freedom of Niki de Saint Phalle during a defining period in her career,” states Jean-Luc Murray, Chief Curator of the MNBAQ. “This exhibition offers a fresh perspective on her renowned work, unveiling lesser-known aspects of her artistry while revealing the profound influence she has had on contemporary art.”
The exhibition will feature over 100 works spanning across different media, including sculptures, paintings, collages, and works on paper. The carefully curated selection will provide insights into de Saint Phalle’s artistic evolution during a transformative decade for the art world. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience her signature style characterized by bold colors, organic forms, and vibrant depictions of the female form.
Among the highlights will be a large-scale installation showcasing the evolution of her iconic “Nana” series, which portrays powerful female figures imbued with humor and exuberance. Also on display will be her vibrant, fantastical “Tirs” (Shoots), interactive sculptures that engage audiences in an exhilarating and cathartic artistic experience.
“This exhibition promises to be a captivating journey through the vibrant world of Niki de Saint Phalle,” says Dominique Michel, MNBAQ Director General and Chief Executive Officer. “We anticipate this exhibition will attract a wide range of visitors and spark conversations around her powerful feminist ideals, artistic innovation, and enduring legacy.”
The MNBAQ exhibition will also offer in-depth insights into the context surrounding de Saint Phalle’s work, exploring the influence of pop art, the feminist art movement, and the rise of performative art. Through immersive displays, educational materials, and accompanying programs, the exhibition aims to enrich visitor understanding of her artistic processes, creative influences, and broader cultural impact.
“Niki de Saint Phalle: The 1980s and 1990s” marks the beginning of a larger focus on female artists and their contributions to the world of art at the MNBAQ.
“The museum has made a commitment to spotlighting female artists in our exhibitions and programming,” said Murray. “We believe this exhibition will inspire and educate, highlighting the strength and originality of female voices in contemporary art history.”
The MNBAQ is confident that this highly anticipated exhibition will solidify Niki de Saint Phalle’s status as one of the most influential and significant artists of the 20th and 21st centuries, further establishing her as a cultural icon.
**About the MNBAQ:**
The Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec is a dynamic cultural institution dedicated to preserving, interpreting, and promoting the artistic heritage of Quebec and the world. It is renowned for its impressive collection of over 42,000 works spanning a wide range of art forms and periods, and offers an engaging program of exhibitions, education programs, and public events throughout the year.
For more information about the upcoming exhibition, please visit [website link].
SOURCE Musée national des beaux-arts du Québec (MNBAQ)
