Rennes, France – From February 14th to May 10th, 2026, La Criée centre d’art contemporain will host a major exhibition dedicated to the function of Canadian artist Marcel Dzama. Entitled “Le voyage dans la Lune” (A Trip to the Moon), the exhibition pays homage to the pioneering filmmaker Georges Méliès and marks the first time Dzama’s films have been shown in a comprehensive European presentation. The display will also feature a compelling collection of storyboards, drawings, maquettes, and sculptures, offering a broad view into the artist’s distinctive and imaginative world.
Dzama, born in 1974 in Winnipeg, Canada, has garnered international acclaim for his unique artistic vision, blending elements of surrealism, early modernism, pop culture, and underground music. While recognized internationally, opportunities to view his work in France have been limited, making this exhibition at La Criée particularly significant. The exhibition promises a deep dive into Dzama’s creative process, showcasing not only his finished films but also the foundational elements that bring them to life.
A Cinematic Homage to Georges Méliès
The title “Le voyage dans la Lune” is a direct nod to Georges Méliès’s groundbreaking 1902 film, *A Trip to the Moon* (*Le Voyage dans la Lune*), a landmark achievement in the history of cinema. Méliès, a French illusionist and filmmaker, is celebrated for his innovative employ of special effects and narrative storytelling, essentially inventing many of the techniques still used in filmmaking today. Britannica details Méliès’s influence on the development of cinematic narrative and visual effects.
Dzama’s exhibition seeks to capture the spirit of Méliès’s pioneering work, exploring the intersection of art, illusion, and storytelling. The selection of films presented will span the artist’s career, including early works, improvisational pieces, collaborations with family members, and commissioned projects. According to La Criée, the exhibition will feature around fifteen films, presented in a one-hour program, with two major works – *A Jester’s Dance* (2013) and *To live on the Moon (for Lorca)* (2023) – receiving dedicated screening rooms.
Marcel Dzama: A Multifaceted Artist
Marcel Dzama’s artistic journey began with formal training in fine arts at the University of Winnipeg. But, his creative development was significantly shaped by his immersion in alternative popular cultures. He was actively involved in the Winnipeg music scene, participating in rock bands and producing fanzines, experiences that fostered his collaborative spirit and experimental approach. ShowOnShow highlights Dzama’s early influences and his prolific practice since the late 1990s.
Dzama’s work is characterized by a distinctive visual style, often employing black-and-white imagery and expressionistic gestures reminiscent of early cinema. He draws inspiration from a wide range of sources, including surrealism, early modernism, and illustration. His art frequently blends humor, poetry, cruelty, and political undertones, creating a fantastical universe that is both captivating and thought-provoking. The Canadian Cultural Centre notes that Dzama “plays with the codes and history of burlesque and fantasy with the virtuosity of a tightrope walker.”
Exploring the Artistic Mediums
“Le voyage dans la Lune” will not solely focus on Dzama’s film work. The exhibition will also showcase a diverse collection of his other artistic mediums, including storyboards, drawings, maquettes, and sculptures. These elements provide valuable insight into Dzama’s creative process, revealing the intricate planning and meticulous craftsmanship that underpin his films. The inclusion of these supporting materials allows viewers to appreciate the full scope of Dzama’s artistic vision and the interconnectedness of his various creative pursuits.
The exhibition will feature *Before I let you take me home (or Let’s go for drinks)*, a 2024 work utilizing acrylic pearl, ink, watercolor, and graphite on paper, as noted by ShowOnShow. This piece exemplifies Dzama’s layered approach to visual storytelling and his ability to create complex narratives through a combination of different artistic techniques.
La Criée: A Hub for Contemporary Art
La Criée, the venue hosting the exhibition, is a prominent center for contemporary art located in Rennes, France. Situated at Place Honoré Commeurec, the center is dedicated to showcasing innovative and challenging works by both established and emerging artists. La Criée is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 13:00 to 19:00, and is closed on Mondays. Admission to the exhibition is free, making it accessible to a wide audience.
The exhibition schedule runs from February 14th to May 10th, 2026, providing ample opportunity for art enthusiasts to experience Dzama’s work. Press visits are scheduled for February 13th at 3:00 PM, offering media representatives an exclusive preview of the exhibition. Visitors can add the event to their calendars using the options provided on La Criée’s website, including Google Calendar, Office 365, Microsoft Outlook, and Yahoo! Calendar.
Dzama’s Recent Work and Commissions
In addition to his exhibition at La Criée, Dzama has been involved in several other notable projects in recent years. He created *To live on the Moon (For Lorca)*, a 25-minute film commissioned by Performa for the 2023 Biennale in New York. This work, like much of his filmography, explores themes of fantasy, memory, and the human condition. The Canadian Cultural Centre highlights this commission as an example of Dzama’s continued exploration of cinematic storytelling.
Dzama’s ability to seamlessly blend different artistic disciplines and his willingness to experiment with new forms of expression have established him as a significant figure in contemporary art. “Le voyage dans la Lune” promises to be a captivating and insightful exploration of his work, offering a unique opportunity to experience the artistry of Marcel Dzama in a European context.
The next confirmed date related to this exhibition is the press visit scheduled for February 13th, 2026. Art critics and journalists will have the opportunity to preview the exhibition and provide early reviews. For those interested in learning more about Marcel Dzama and “Le voyage dans la Lune,” please visit the La Criée website for updates and further information. We encourage readers to share this article and engage in discussion about this exciting artistic event.
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