Lyon, May 17, 2026 – From June 18 to August 29, 2026, Galerie MC2M in Lyon’s antique dealers’ district will host a major exhibition and sale dedicated to Serge Gainsbourg. Titled ‘Serge Gainsbourg – Traits de génie,’ the exhibition will feature manuscripts, rare photographs, and original works, tracing the career of one of French music’s most enigmatic artists.
A Retrospective of an Iconic Artist
Serge Gainsbourg, an artist who transcends generations, continues to fascinate audiences with his words, freedom, and silences. This ambitious retrospective aims to delve into the complex personality behind the public figure, presenting him not merely as a provocateur but as a romantic, as he once described himself. The exhibition seeks to understand the man who wrote for some of France’s greatest performers while simultaneously shaping a body of work that has become a monument of popular culture.
The exhibition will be held at Galerie MC2M, located on Rue Auguste Comte in the heart of Lyon’s art market. It will showcase an eclectic selection of works and documents, each telling a unique story about the artist. Highlights include annotated manuscripts and rare photographs, providing an intimate look into Gainsbourg’s creative process and life.
Key Highlights of the Exhibition:
- Rare Manuscripts: Explore Gainsbourg’s handwritten lyrics and notes, offering insights into his songwriting process.
- Unique Photographs: Discover never-before-seen images, including a unique photograph from the 1977 César Awards ceremony, signed by Gainsbourg himself.
- Original Works: A selection of original artworks will be on display, further illustrating Gainsbourg’s artistic versatility.
Galerie MC2M: A Hub for Major Artists
Founded in 2023 by Maxence Curtenaz, Galerie MC2M has quickly established itself in the Lyonnaise art scene. The gallery’s programming combines modern, contemporary, and photographic art, having already featured renowned artists such as Picasso, Chagall, Dali, Bernard Buffet, Karl Lagerfeld, and Robert Combas. With the Serge Gainsbourg exhibition, the gallery continues its mission to bridge diverse artistic worlds.
Gainsbourg was not only a musician but also a man of images, writing, and constant self-staging. His complex and often challenging personality has always been a source of fascination, making him a perfect subject for the gallery’s curated selection.
Practical Information:
- Location: Galerie MC2M, 21, rue Auguste Comte – 69002 Lyon
- Dates: From June 18 to August 29, 2026
- Vernissage: June 18, 2026, starting at 6:30 PM
The exhibition promises to be a significant cultural event in Lyon, offering both long-time fans and new admirers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the multifaceted genius of Serge Gainsbourg.
