We are thrilled to announce that the Art Gallery of New South Wales will be showcasing from 15 June to 22 September the most extensive exhibition of visionary artist Alphonse Mucha’s work ever seen in Australia. It will be an extraordinary monographic taking place in Australia.

Renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to European art, Mucha (1860–1939) revolutionized the late 19th-century Parisian aesthetic with his iconic, flowing compositions, becoming synonymous with the Art Nouveau movement.

Titled “Alphonse Mucha: Spirit of Art Nouveau,” the exhibition presents a diverse array of Mucha’s creations, spanning illustrations, jewelry, interior décor, photography, and more. Through these works, visitors will gain insight into the enduring influence of Mucha’s artistic vision.

Celebrated for his collaboration with legendary figure Sarah Bernhardt and his pioneering efforts in advertising and product design, Mucha’s quest for democratizing art is evident throughout his oeuvre.

Beyond his artistic endeavors, Mucha’s deep-seated political and spiritual convictions drove his commitment to the Slavic peoples and the liberation of his native Czech Republic. The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to explore Mucha’s multifaceted identity as an artist, activist, mystic, and philosopher.

Supported by the NSW Government through Destination NSW, the exhibition includes a comprehensive catalogue featuring over 200 images, providing a rich complement to the immersive experience awaiting visitors.

Michael Brand, Director of the Art Gallery of New South Wales, expressed gratitude for the close collaboration with the Mucha Foundation in Prague, which has made possible the extensive exhibition showcasing many of Alphonse Mucha’s significant works in Sydney. The exhibition sheds light on Mucha’s enduring influence as an artist and designer, resonating even 85 years after his passing.

Brand highlighted Mucha’s prolific and diverse artistic output, spanning from his iconic theatrical posters to design, advertising, jewelry, sculpture, interior design, book illustration, and painting. He emphasized Mucha’s multifaceted identity as an artist, activist, and philosopher, noting his exploration beyond Art Nouveau in pursuit of an art form that could uplift the human spirit. Additionally, Brand underscored Mucha’s advocacy for the socio-historical issues affecting the Slavic peoples during the era of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.