At Galerie Depardieu in Nice, a journey into the art of Maurice Renoma

In the heart of Nice, just steps from Place Masséna, Galerie Depardieu is hosting the exhibition La Promenade Pop de Cristobal le Poisson Rouge until April 12, 2025—an immersive journey into the artistic world of Maurice Renoma, a designer, photographer, and visionary artist.

An Explosion of Colors and Symbols

As soon as I step into the gallery, a vibrant canvas catches my eye. At the center stands a large goldfish: Cristobal, the star of the exhibition and the artist’s alter ego. The title of the artwork, Camouflage Ethnique, suggests a fusion of forms and cultures. Nearby, Homage to Magritte draws my attention—a graphic composition where the artist appears wrapped in an outfit reminiscent of haute couture, subtly blending art and fashion.

The Universe of Maurice Renoma

While admiring the works, I am warmly greeted by Clara, an Italian passionate about Renoma’s art. She enthusiastically recounts the artist’s journey, initially renowned as a revolutionary fashion designer in the 1960s when he dressed icons such as Serge Gainsbourg, Brigitte Bardot, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Dalí, and even Andy Warhol.

His androgynous and provocative style defined an era, but Renoma didn’t stop at fashion. He began photographing his own creations, challenging the very concept of fashion photography. His images from the ‘90s seem as if they were taken today, a testament to his timeless vision.

From Fashion to Pop Art: Cristobal, the Goldfish

In this exhibition, his pop art emerges in a personal and ironic way, featuring Cristobal, a goldfish that came into being almost by accident. Originally just a plastic toy, a simple gift, it has evolved into a recurring symbol in his works—becoming a metaphor for the human condition and environmental awareness.

These creations, labeled “Pop Art à la Maurice,” have been displayed with great success at the Paris Aquarium, accompanied by a playful animated video that can also be viewed at the gallery.

A Journey Through Styles and Influences

Beyond the works dedicated to Cristobal, the exhibition offers a retrospective on the many themes and artistic languages Renoma has explored over the years. From pop art references to cubist influences and photographic experiments, his creative universe unfolds in all its eclecticism.

Enhancing the experience is the gallery’s atmosphere: spontaneous conversations between visitors and artists, discussions about Arte Povera, the Japanese language, and even a visitor’s coat—who, in a playful exchange, ended up comparing Renoma’s looks to Picasso’s.

Useful Information

📍 Where: Galerie Depardieu, Rue du Docteur Jacques Guidoni 6, Nice
🕒 Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 2:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📅 On view until: April 12, 2025

An unmissable exhibition for contemporary art lovers eager to be surprised by the creativity of an artist who defies conventions.