Bringing together more than 20 exceptional paintings, the exhibition showcased works by some of the movement’s most influential artists, including Émile Bernard, Pierre Bonnard, Maurice Denis, Charles Filiger, Paul Ranson, József Rippl-Rónai, Ker-Xavier Roussel, Paul Sérusier and Édouard Vuillard. Focusing on the years between 1888 and 1900, The Nabi Shock explored the period when these artists worked closely together in Paris, developing a bold new visual language that challenged artistic conventions.
Drawing on Waddington Custot’s expertise in this important chapter of European modernism, the exhibition offered fresh insight into the Nabis’ innovative use of colour, symbolism and expressive composition. As we moved through the galleries, it became easy to see why this remarkable group continues to influence artists and captivate audiences more than a century later.
Alongside these historic masterpieces, The Nabi Shock also presented contemporary works by Marcel·la Barceló, Ben Arpéa, Ian Davenport, Marcel Dzama, François Réau, Anne Rothenstein and Fabienne Verdier. By placing contemporary artists in conversation with the Nabis, the exhibition highlighted the movement’s lasting legacy, revealing how its bold exploration of colour, rhythm and emotional expression continues to inspire artistic practice today.
