André Derain retrospective at Museo d’arte Mendrisio

The Museo d’arte Mendrisio presents a thematic exhibition on French artist André Derain (1880–1954), curated by Simone Soldini, Francesco Poli, and Barbara Paltenghi. The show spans the entire first floor, opening in a yellow room featuring theatrical works, a central row of glass cases with sculptures, and a compendium of photographs influenced by Man Ray and Surrealism. Adjacent galleries display paintings, landscapes, portraits, and still lifes. Derain, a Fauve alongside Matisse and Maurice de Vlaminck, was described by Marcel Duchamp as “allergic to theories, but true in his art.” Alberto Giacometti admired his ability to see essence behind apparent reality. Derain’s post-WWII reputation suffered due to accusations of Nazi collaboration after a trip to Germany to reclaim confiscated property. The exhibition also highlights his lifelong engagement with theater—he played harpsichord, collected 19th-century works and musical instruments, and designed sets and costumes, rivaling Picasso. The show runs at the museum in Mendrisio, Switzerland.