A new exhibition in Monaco explores the evolution of Monegasque artist Hubert Clerissi, a man first inspired by the precision of architectural drawings and later by the freedom of artistic expression.
Monaco Life attended the exhibition’s press unveiling on 19th February, ahead of the public opening of Hubert Clerissi – Espaces ciselés at the Salle d’Exposition du Quai Antoine 1er. The exhibition, which runs from 20th February to 12th March, is being supported by the Mairie de Monaco and organised in collaboration with the Department of Cultural Affairs and the Pavillon Bosio – École Supérieure d’Arts Plastiques. Nadia Omiecinski and Philippe Clerissi, the children of Hubert Clerissi, were present at the press review, offering insights into their father’s artistic journey and legacy.
The retrospective traces the artistic evolution of Hubert Clerissi (1923-2000), reflecting his transition from architectural precision to expressive freedom. His background in architecture, shaped by his father Étienne Clerissi, a practising architect and artist, initially influenced his structured approach. However, over time, he moved away from rigid frameworks, using line as a means of expression rather than mere technical construction. His urban landscapes balance architectural order with spontaneity, while his watercolours capture movement and fragility.
Clerissi’s work draws inspiration from artists such as Utrillo, Dufy and Buffet, blending different techniques to experiment with texture and spontaneity. His signature incisive lines fragment and structure his compositions, reflecting both a fascination with urban spaces and an ongoing exploration of his artistic identity.
The exhibition is presented in partnership with the post-Master’s programme Décors at Pavillon Bosio, which supports emerging professionals in scenography through paid commissions from cultural institutions. The scenography, designed by Maria Magdalena David and Illona Rougemond-Mosconi, integrates thematic elements reflecting Clerissi’s artistic approach, with the exhibition space structured as a visual journey through his career. Leah Friedman, an artist-scenographer and former Pavillon Bosio student, serves as the exhibition’s curator, while its artistic direction is overseen by Nadia Omiecinski.
Speaking to Monaco Life, Omiecinski, who is also Clerissi’s daughter, shared, “I am so proud and happy… This scenography and curation have given a fresh, youthful perspective to Clerissi’s creations, bringing his work to life in a new way.”
In addition to the exhibition, free workshops will be held on-site for children and adults between 20th February and 12th March. These include creative sessions such as Des lignes en folie / ou les cactées for young children and Voyager à travers les perspectives for older participants, offering a hands-on exploration of Clerissi’s techniques.
See more from the press review in this Monaco Life reel:
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*Adapted from an article originally published on 12th February 2025