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Matisse, the Symphony of Colours at the Bassins des Lumières in Bordeaux

Bordeaux submarine base · Immersive exhibition · Frida Kahlo and two other exhibitions included
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Matisse's colours in an immersive show, plus Frida Kahlo and two other exhibitions included. See more

In the vast basins of the former Bordeaux submarine base, the work of Henri Matisse comes to life on the walls and on the water. The exhibition follows the painter on his travels to the Mediterranean, Morocco and Tahiti, explores colour as a language, and ends with his famous paper cut-outs and the stained-glass windows of the Chapelle du Rosaire in Vence. A theatre of light, art and music, open to everyone, with no prior knowledge of art history needed. Your ticket also gives access to three other shows: Frida Kahlo, en plein cœur, L'échappée des lignes and Oniria.

IncludedMatisse, Frida Kahlo, en plein cœur, L'échappée des lignes and Oniria (in the Cube) VenueBassins des Lumières, submarine base, Bordeaux DaysOn certain days only, alternating with another exhibition: check the calendar DurationAbout 1h to 1h30 Price€16 per person, free for children under 6
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Exhibition

📍 Bordeaux, submarine base · 🎨 4 exhibitions included · ⏱ 1h to 1h30 · 🆓 Free under 6

API - Exhibition Ticket "Matisse, the Symphony of Colours"

Matisse's vibrant colours projected on the walls and on the water of the submarine base.

Matisse + Frida Kahlo + L'échappée des lignes + Oniria · Bassins des Lumières, Bordeaux

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ExhibitionsMatisse, the Symphony of Colours, Frida Kahlo, en plein cœur, L'échappée des lignes and Oniria (in the Cube) DaysMatisse is shown on certain days only, alternating with another exhibition. Book a Matisse day Opening hours10am to 6pm, until 7pm or 8pm on some Fridays and Saturdays. Last entry one hour before closing DurationAbout 1h to 1h30 LanguageFrench narration with English subtitles VenueImpasse Brown de Colstoun, 33300 Bordeaux ChildrenFree for under-6s, booking required. Not recommended for under-2s
€16
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What to expect

Matisse, the Symphony of Colours: a unique immersive experience in Bordeaux

Step into the luminous world of Henri Matisse at the Bassins des Lumières, the largest digital art centre in the world. Projected onto the walls and reflected in the water of the vast basins, the works of the master of colour come to life in an immersive show that you experience as much as you watch.

Immersed in the world of Matisse

The show follows Matisse on his travels to the Mediterranean, Morocco and Tahiti, which shaped his palette and his quest for light. From vibrant canvases to his famous paper cut-outs and the stained-glass windows of the Chapelle du Rosaire in Vence, each sequence shows how the artist simplified forms to set colour free. All to a soundtrack that accompanies every painting.

A spectacular venue in the heart of Bordeaux

The Bassins des Lumières are housed in the former Bordeaux submarine base, built during the Second World War. Four gigantic basins over 110 metres long, concrete walls and reflections on the water: the venue is an integral part of the show.

An art experience for everyone

You don't need to be an art expert to enjoy the visit: just let yourself be carried away by the images and music, at your own pace. It is an ideal outing for families, friends or couples, and a wonderful way to discover Matisse in a new light.

Your ticket also gives access to the other exhibitions on site: Frida Kahlo, en plein cœur, L'échappée des lignes and Oniria, shown in the Cube. Matisse alternates with the Dinosaurs exhibition depending on the day: make sure you check the date you choose in the calendar.

Practical information

AddressBassins des Lumières, impasse Brown de Colstoun, 33300 Bordeaux Opening hours10am to 6pm, until 7pm or 8pm on some Fridays and Saturdays. Last entry 1 hour before closing. DurationAllow 1h to 1h30 for all the exhibitions LanguageFrench narration with English subtitles Getting thereTram C or bus 9 (Bassins des Lumières stop), bus 5, or stop no. 10 of the Hop On Hop Off bus By carA10 then the ring road (rocade), exit 4. Free municipal car park nearby, or secure car park by reservation ChildrenFree for under-6s, booking required. Not recommended for under-2s HealthNot recommended for people prone to epilepsy ComfortThe base can be chilly in winter: bring a jacket AccessibilityAccessible to people with reduced mobility. Pushchairs allowed Not allowedBikes, scooters and skateboards. No animals, except guide dogs TicketE-ticket, to show on your smartphone at the entrance

A cultural outing not to be missed in Bordeaux: book your ticket and let yourself be swept away by the colours of Matisse.

Experience Matisse as a group: an unforgettable immersion to share

Organising an event for a group of more than 10 people?

Treat your group to a unique art experience where Matisse's works come to life all around you. Fill in the form now to organise your visit and enjoy an exceptional shared immersion, easy to book and unforgettable to experience together.
Feel free to contact us at +33-1-48-74-05-10 for any requests.

Your number will not be used for promotional purposes. It will be used to contact you for any clarification regarding your request.

Common questions

Where is the Matisse exhibition?

The exhibition is presented at the Bassins des Lumières, in the former Bordeaux submarine base, impasse Brown de Colstoun, in the Bassins à flot district.

What is the exhibition about?

It is an immersive exhibition: the works of Henri Matisse are projected in large format on the walls and on the water of the basins, to an original soundtrack. The show follows his travels to the Mediterranean, Morocco and Tahiti, and ends with his paper cut-outs and the stained-glass windows of the Chapelle du Rosaire in Vence.

Which other exhibitions are included in the ticket?

Your ticket also gives access to three other shows at no extra cost: Frida Kahlo, en plein cœur, L'échappée des lignes and Oniria, presented in the Cube.

Is the exhibition shown every day?

No. The Bassins des Lumières alternate several exhibitions depending on the day. When booking, make sure you choose a date on which Matisse is shown.

What are the opening hours?

The Bassins des Lumières are open from 10am to 6pm, and until 7pm or 8pm on some Fridays and Saturdays. Last entry is one hour before closing.

How long does the visit take?

Allow about 1h to 1h30.

Do I need to know about art?

No, the exhibition is open to everyone, with no prior knowledge of art history needed. You come above all to feel the colour and the light.

Is the exhibition suitable for children?

Yes, it is for all ages. It is free for children under 6, with booking required. However, it is not recommended for children under 2 or for people with epilepsy or photosensitivity.

What language is the narration in?

The narration is in French, with English subtitles.

Who created the exhibition?

The exhibition is produced by Culturespaces Studio, with Virginie Martin as artistic director and the Cutback studio for staging and animation. Music supervision is by Start-Rec.

Can I take photos?

Yes, photos are generally allowed, as long as you do not disturb other visitors.

How do I get to the Bassins des Lumières?

From Quinconces or Saint-Jean station, take tram C to Ravezies, then bus 9 to the Base sous-marine stop. By car, there is a free municipal car park in front of the submarine base, subject to availability.

Is it cold in the basins?

The basins can be chilly, especially in winter: bring warm clothing.

Is the venue accessible to people with reduced mobility?

Yes, the Bassins des Lumières are accessible to people with reduced mobility.

Map

Map
Address
Impasse Brown de Colstoun
33300 Bordeaux

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