Collections de Saint-Cyprien

About the museum

The Collections de Saint-Cyprien grew out of the bequest of the painter François Desnoyer (1894–1972), who settled in Sète in 1945 and died in Saint-Cyprien. He was close to Jean Olibo, then mayor of the commune, and on his recommendation created his own foundation in Saint-Cyprien. Artists came to stay for a month in residence, housed and fed by the municipality, and left a work to the foundation in return.

On his death, Desnoyer bequeathed to the town more than 700 works from his personal collection, including works by major artists such as Maillol, Chagall and Gromaire. The François Desnoyer Foundation was established in 1975 in Saint-Cyprien and now manages the Collections. The holdings also include a library of artists’ books and monographs.

The collection has been supplemented by acquisitions of 19th- and 20th-century paintings, including works of the Barbizon school and by Chabaud, Lebourg, Luce, Loiseau, Utrillo and Denis. Located in the old village, the museum organizes several temporary exhibitions each year of painting, sculpture, photography or contemporary art, as well as lectures, concerts and workshops for adults and children.

Highlights

• Bequest of more than 700 works by the painter François Desnoyer
• Works by major artists such as Maillol, Chagall and Gromaire
• Acquisitions of 19th- and 20th-century paintings
• Regular temporary exhibitions, including artists from Roussillon
• Workshops for children, masterclasses and concerts

Permanent exhibition

• Collection François Desnoyer – Collection of more than 700 works bequeathed by the painter François Desnoyer, supplemented by acquisitions of 19th- and 20th-century paintings.

Founded

1975

Operated by

Ville de Saint-Cyprien (Fondation François Desnoyer)

Admission & discounts

Also free for residents of Saint-Cyprien on presentation of proof of address. Reduced rate of €2 for job seekers and people with reduced mobility, and €3.50 with the pass découvertes. Payment by bank card, cash or check. Visits in foreign languages: €90.

Accessibility

• Wheelchair accessible: no information
• Elevator: no information
• Accessible restroom: no information
• Accessible parking: no information
• Service dogs welcome: no information
• Tactile models & exhibits: no information
• Sign language tours: no information
• Easy-to-read materials: no information
• Audio description: no information

The reduced rate applies to people with reduced mobility; the museum’s website gives no further information on accessibility. Dogs are not allowed on the museum grounds.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops

The museum offers workshops for children, masterclasses during school holidays and an educational service for all ages.

Getting there & parking

You can come by bike from Canet or Alenya.

Amenities & dining

• Museum shop

Shop with merchandise and artists’ publications; an online shop lets customers collect their order at the museum. Toilets and a film screening room according to the tourist office.

Events & venue rental

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Plan your visit