Exposition temporaire : La fête foraine. Un monde à part ?

Come one, come all! Come and discover exceptional collections of fairground art, brought together in this exhibition – the only one of its kind in France – exploring the social worlds of the funfair, and even those of the future! Created with the involvement of fairground workers, artists and collectors, as well as ‘settled residents’ – young and old alike look forward to the return of the patron saint’s festival every year – this new exhibition-survey captures the spirit of the fair. This is a place where fairground workers must know how to create a perpetual festive atmosphere, to whisk us away on a real journey. An explosion of colours and smells, a cacophony of sounds, from carousels with wooden horses to ever-more-thrilling rides, from the mirror maze to tests of strength or skill, not to mention the sideshows and performances by acrobats and puppeteers – everything is skilfully designed to attract visitors, stimulate our imagination, deceive our senses, put our bodies to the test and lift us off the ground. Come in, come in! Into the intimate world of a social scene described as ‘a little bit apart’ by those who bring it to life, those who frequent it, or even those who seek to pass on its memory and cultivate a style, a sense of humour or an offbeat spirit. You’ll emerge as if intoxicated by images, dreams and questions: who are those who fit the description of ‘fairground folk’ and share a language and customs all their own? What ties them to those who live in one place and the rest of society? Where does the funfair take us? As a place of major innovations, does it contribute to the progress of society, or does it offer a respite, an escape? Ultimately, might what the fair brings us, with its convoys of gypsy wagons and caravans, not be a reminder of dreams, of freedom, of the spirit of celebration and community, and of mutual support? So make the most of it – there won’t be enough to go round! Exhibition curators: Aurélie DUMAIN and Delphine LANNAUD This exhibition has been recognised as being of national interest by the Ministry of Culture, which, as such, is providing it with exceptional financial support.