New National Museum of Monaco Opens Major Exhibition Exploring Nature Through Poussin and Contemporary Art

The New National Museum of Monaco (NMNM) has unveiled its first major exhibition of the year at Villa Paloma, inviting visitors into a rich artistic dialogue between past and present.

Titled The Feeling of Nature: Contemporary Art in the Mirror of Poussin, the exhibition places the work of 17th-century master Nicolas Poussin in conversation with nearly 40 artists spanning four centuries and multiple disciplines.

Nature, a defining theme in Poussin’s oeuvre, lies at the heart of the exhibition. Widely regarded as one of the greatest classical French painters—yet profoundly influenced by Italy—Poussin approached landscape not simply as a backdrop, but as a poetic and emotional force. His vision transformed nature into a living, expressive presence, capable of conveying human drama and philosophical reflection.

Curated by Guillaume de Sardes, the exhibition juxtaposes Poussin’s paintings with contemporary works including photography, video, and immersive installations. Exceptional loans from prestigious institutions such as the Prado Museum in Madrid and the Louvre enhance the presentation, alongside works from the NMNM’s own collection.

The exhibition unfolds across six thematic sections—storms, nightscapes, forests, deserts, and volcanic terrains among them—guiding visitors through diverse interpretations of the natural world. Rather than focusing exclusively on environmental concerns, the show celebrates nature’s beauty, mystery, and emotional depth, inviting contemplation and renewed appreciation.

Opening on 13 February at Villa Paloma, this ambitious project reinforces Monaco’s commitment to fostering dialogue between heritage and contemporary creation, offering a poetic and thought-provoking reflection on humanity’s enduring relationship with