From July 18 to November 16, 2025, the Musée de la Banque – Museum of Cultures and Landscape in Hyères presents a unique spotlight on the work of Raoul Dufy, revealing his deep connection to the world of textiles and fashion. This lesser-known facet of his artistic journey is explored through a scenography that blends pictorial art, fashion archives, and textile creations.
Dufy, the “ornamentist of happiness”
Celebrated for his luminous Mediterranean landscapes, vibrant artworks, and lively scenes, Raoul Dufy (1877–1953) was also a major figure in modern textile design. Influenced by Impressionism and later Fauvism, he never fully embraced Cubism, favoring instead a freer, more festive use of color. Having settled in Hyères in the 1920s, Dufy drew inspiration from the region’s radiant light and joyful atmosphere, which shine through the patterns on display. His representations of gardens, architecture, and local scenes are mirrored in his textile creations.
Brochier Soieries: expertise behind the scenes
In partnership with the City of Hyères and Villa Noailles, Brochier Soieries has loaned archive materials from the Maison Bianchini Férier along with exclusive creations for the exhibition. Nearly 55 original patterns by Dufy are presented, printed on silk, velvet, or cotton, and framed like so many joyful variations on ornamental themes. These works testify to the artist’s collaboration with prestigious houses such as Bianchini Férier, for whom he created up to 3,000 motifs—transforming his gouaches into luxurious fabrics.
Fashion and haute couture: a creative dialogue
The exhibition features 25 exceptional dresses designed by some of the biggest names in fashion, using Dufy’s motifs to elevate the silhouette. Among them: pieces by Paul Poiret, Chanel, Christian Lacroix, Agnès b., as well as costumes by Catherine Leterrier and Anthony Powell. Highlights include a dressing gown with Dufy’s cheetah and elephant patterns worn by Valérie Lemercier in the film 100% Cachemire, and a robe featuring Dufy’s Chinese Horse design worn by Benoît Poelvoorde as Étienne Balsan in Coco Before Chanel.
An immersive experience: from studio to runway
The exhibition design by Frédéric Beauclair offers a sensory journey through the creative process—from preparatory sketches and carved stamps to fabric samples and printed hangings. Visitors are invited to step into the experience of a silk workshop, where creation and craftsmanship come together.
A key moment in the visit: a runway-style display of iconic dresses, where Dufy’s patterns come alive on the body, reviving the subtle balance between fine art and fashion.
Practical Information
Dates: July 18 – November 16, 2025
Venue: Musée de la Banque – Museum of Cultures and Landscape, Hyères
Opening hours:
– Tuesday to Friday: 11 am – 7 pm
– Saturday: 3 pm – 7 pm
– Sunday: 10 am – 2 pm
Admission: €7 (reduced rates available)