Bonnard's Paintings Meet Mahdavi's Stage Set at NGV

The National Gallery of Victoria's 'Melbourne Winter Masterpieces' programme presents Pierre Bonnard with scenography by India Mahdavi, marking the first time the designer receives equal billing to the artist. Mahdavi's contributions include wallpapered backdrops sampled from Bonnard's paintings, block-colour walls, and furniture scattered across four galleries. The exhibition features over 100 works split into 16 sections. The review criticizes Bonnard's portraits, particularly of his wife Marthe de Méligny, but praises his still lifes and landscapes, such as 'Banks of the Seine' (c. 1918) and 'The checkered tablecloth' (1939). Mahdavi's colourful rugs and sofas help divert attention from weak faces, though the wallpaper slightly dulls the paintings' robust colour. Families and visitors use the furniture, making the space feel lived-in. The show includes a series of Bonnard's black-and-white photographs. Runs through 8 October.