Louvre-Lens Explores the Art of Cuteness in 'Trop mignon ! L'art du bonheur'

From September 23, 2026, to January 18, 2027, the Louvre-Lens will present 'Trop mignon ! L'art du bonheur,' an exhibition that delves into the cultural significance of cuteness. Co-curated by Émilie Girard and Annabelle Ténèze, the showcase includes artworks spanning from ancient times to modern creations, featuring notable artists such as Agnès Varda, Jeff Koons, and Philippe Katerine. The exhibition examines characteristics of cuteness, like small dimensions and pastel hues, while also confronting serious topics, including the exploitation of cuteness in totalitarian regimes and ethical dilemmas within the cuteness industry. Specific sections will highlight animals, plush toys, and the Japanese kawaii movement, with a dedicated area discussing the association of pink with homosexuality. The exhibition posits that cuteness offers solace in a bleak world.