tip-no-100 | © Bert Schwarz 2022

A Museum for Tomi Ungerer

Art

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The Essence of Strasbourg

As the first museum in France, the Tomi Ungerer Museum is dedicated entirely to 20th-century and contemporary illustration. In Strasbourg, this art form has a long tradition—and it was here, in 1931, that Tomi Ungerer himself was born. The work of this versatile artist is world-renowned: from children's book classics like The Three Robbers to razor-sharp satirical drawings and political posters that are today considered icons of visual art.

Strasbourg, Ill river at the museum | © Bert Schwarz 2022
Inspiration at the doorstep: The Ill river and the striking architecture of Strasbourg.

Donations to the Home Town

Since 1975, Tomi Ungerer has bequeathed a large part of his work to his home town. Today, the museum preserves an impressive treasure: 11,000 drawings by the artist as well as 6,500 toys from his private collection. This collection is unique in the world and is regularly supplemented by the works of other international illustrators, making the house a vibrant center for graphic art.

Villa Greiner Strasbourg | © Bert Schwarz 2022
A worthy setting: The museum located in the historic Villa Greiner.

From Children’s Books to Satire

Spread across three floors, the entire range of Ungerer's genius is presented. The ground floor is dedicated to his famous children's books, while the first floor houses his advertising and satirical drawings. On the garden level, a more provocative facet is revealed through erotic-satirical works. The integration of mechanical toys into the tour is also fascinating, providing a personal glimpse into the artist's passion for collecting.

European Parliament Strasbourg | © Bert Schwarz 2022
Contrasts: The modern political stage of Strasbourg in the courtyard of the Parliament.

Constant Rediscovery

Due to the high light sensitivity of graphic works, the museum changes the exhibition three times a year. This is a stroke of luck for visitors: the exhibition stays in motion, and with every visit, new aspects and previously unseen drawings from the massive archives can be discovered. A worthy place for an artist who never allowed himself to be pigeonholed.

Council of Europe with flags | © Bert Schwarz 2022
International ground: The Council of Europe in immediate proximity.