Curatorial Note
North Korea: The Story Behind the Exhibition
Staged inside the distinguished galleries of Musée des Confluences, 'North Korea' brings into sharp focus the compelling artistic vision of North Korea. As one of the highlight presentations of the cultural calendar, this exhibition offers visitors an unforgettable encounter with key masterworks and pivotal creative breakthroughs. Photographer Stéphan Gladieu visited North Korea five times to take portraits. With government authorization and constant supervision, he used a mobile studio to create unique backgrounds.
The curatorial narrative examines the aesthetic evolution of North Korea, highlighting the nuanced handling of light, palette, and spatial rhythm. By assembling rare loans alongside signature works, the presentation reveals how the artist continually reshaped European visual culture.
Surrounded by the monumental architecture of Musée des Confluences, the installation establishes a luminous, contemplative atmosphere. Each gallery room has been thoughtfully paced to provide art enthusiasts and curious travelers with an inspiring and immersive museum experience.
Curatorial Perspective
Photographer Stéphan Gladieu visited North Korea five times to take portraits. With government authorization and constant supervision, he used a mobile studio to create unique backgrounds.
Curatorial Premise
A comprehensive exploration of the visual revolution and aesthetic mastery of North Korea.
“This exhibition invites audiences to look beyond traditional boundaries and discover the rich emotional depth of North Korea's creations.”
Md
Musée des Confluences Curatorial Department
Chief Curatorial Team
Curated Room-by-Room Walkthrough
Thematic Journey & Exhibition Rooms
01 Origins
Formative Years & Early Vision
Early exploratory works and seminal influences that laid the groundwork for future mastery.
02 Core Masterpieces
The Height of Mastery
The definitive mid-career triumphs where technical virtuosity and emotional power reached their zenith.
03 Monumental Vista
Enduring Legacy & Dialogue
The lasting resonance of this artistic journey set in dialogue with the permanent collections of Musée des Confluences.
Key Highlights
Featured Exhibition Masterpieces
2026 Featured Masterpiece: North Korea
Curated Exhibition Highlight
The centerpiece of the exhibition, epitomizing the formal command and expressive brilliance of North Korea.
Artistic Study Preparatory Studies & Cartoons
Archival & Curatorial Selection
Intimate preparatory drawings revealing the artist's structural methodology and draftsmanship.
Permanent Setting Exhibition Gallery Installation
Gallery & Spatial Perspective
The luminous curatorial staging inside the historic gallery chambers of Musée des Confluences.
OFFICIAL TICKETS & ADMISSION
Select Your Tickets & Timeslot
WHAT YOU WILL SEE
Key Masterpieces & Exhibition Highlights
- ✓Access to permanent and temporary exhibitions
- ✓Free lockers
Practical Visitor Information
Everything you need to know before visiting Musée des Confluences
Opening Hours
Mon - Sun: 09:00 - 18:00
Last entry 45 min before closing Public Transit
Metro / Bus station nearby
Recommended Duration
approx. 1.5 - 2 hours
Average visit duration The Museum
Explore Museum Guide & Permanent Collection → Musée des Confluences
Situated on the confluence of the Rhône and the Saône rivers, the Musée des Confluences is a science and anthropology museum in Lyon, France. Inside the monumental metal and glass structure, various immersive exhibitions trace the natural and cultural world in painstaking detail – and take visitors on a journey through time and across continents.
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