Maison-atelier de Foujita

Tsugouharu Foujita, a name whispered with reverence in the art world, found solace within the walls of Maison-atelier de Foujita. This unassuming house in Villiers-le-Bâcle became his sanctuary, his final artistic haven. Maison-atelier de Foujita is more than just a house. It is a time capsule preserving the life and work of a remarkable artist. Foujita, a multifaceted talent, was not just a painter. He was also a cartoonist, engraver, illustrator, ceramicist, photographer, filmmaker, and stylist. He’s often hailed as one of the greatest Japanese artists of the 20th century. In 1960, Foujita stumbled upon Villiers-le-Bâcle during a visit to Bièvres. He was captivated by the charm of this quiet village. He purchased a rural house, a dilapidated 18th-century dwelling, and spent a year lovingly restoring it. Maison-atelier de Foujita became his home and studio. The top floor, his atelier, remains untouched. His brushes, pigments, models, and even the mural studies for the Notre-Dame de la Paix chapel in Reims are still there. They offer a glimpse into Foujita’s creative process. Foujita lived and worked at Maison-atelier de Foujita until his death from cancer in Switzerland in 1968. He was initially buried in Villiers-le-Bâcle. Later, his remains were moved to Reims to rest beside his wife in the chapel he adorned with his art, the Notre-Dame de la Paix, also known as the Foujita Chapel. Today, Maison-atelier de Foujita stands as a testament to his legacy. The house has been meticulously preserved, offering visitors a chance to step back into the 1960s. You can experience the intimate atmosphere of this celebrated École de Paris painter. Maison-atelier de Foujita received the prestigious “Maisons des Illustres” label in 2011, a recognition of its cultural significance. The house and gardens provide a unique cultural bridge between East and West. They showcase the multifaceted world of Tsugouharu Foujita, a true artistic master.