In the industrial heart of the Grand Est region, the history of textile manufacturing remains a cornerstone of local identity. A new exhibition at the Musée de l’impression sur étoffes (MISE) in Mulhouse offers a poignant look back at this heritage through the lens of photographer Patrick Baeumlin. The exhibition, titled Regards sur Tex-Union : Mémoire d’une usine textile, invites the public to explore the remnants of a once-thriving industry that shaped the economic and social landscape of Pfastatt.
The collection captures the final days of the Texunion factory, a prominent site in the regional textile sector, shortly before its closure in 2001. By documenting the machinery, the expansive workspaces and the atmosphere of the facility, Baeumlin’s work serves as a vital visual record of a transformative era in French industrial history. For those interested in the intersection of photography and social history, these guided tours provide an opportunity to engage deeply with the legacy of the region’s textile printing traditions.
A Journey Through Industrial Memory
The guided visits, led by cultural mediator Anne Baumann, are designed to provide context to the images, helping visitors understand the significance of the Texunion plant. The museum, located at 14 Rue Jean-Jacques Henner in Mulhouse, serves as a hub for understanding the evolution of textile printing, combining art, history, and industrial science. The initiative to showcase these photographs aligns with the museum’s ongoing mission to preserve and restore the unique industrial heritage of the Haut-Rhin department.
The exhibition is categorized under the museum’s broader efforts to highlight local history and industrial civilization. Visitors can expect to explore the following aspects during the guided sessions:
- The historical context of textile printing in the Mulhouse region.
- The transition from active manufacturing to industrial heritage preservation.
- The artistic perspective of Patrick Baeumlin in capturing the “memory of a factory.”
- The broader social impact of the Texunion facility on the community of Pfastatt.
Engaging with the Legacy
As part of the outreach program, the museum has scheduled guided tours on May 23, 2026. These sessions are intended for all audiences, including those with specific accessibility needs, as the museum is equipped to welcome visitors with motor disabilities. The scheduling reflects a commitment to making cultural heritage accessible to the wider public, with three distinct time slots offered throughout the day to accommodate different schedules.
The role of the museum extends beyond simple display; it acts as a repository for the region’s industrial narrative. By focusing on the Texunion site, the exhibition highlights the human side of industrial work, moving past the cold reality of production lines to focus on the textures and spaces that defined the daily lives of the workforce. This approach allows guests to appreciate the aesthetic value of the photographs while acknowledging the historical weight of the factory’s closure.
Visitor Information and Future Access
For those planning a visit to the Musée de l’impression sur étoffes, the museum is located in the Grand Est region of France. The facility is well-regarded for its extensive collections that bridge the gap between decorative arts and industrial history. Visitors are encouraged to check the museum’s official channels for any updates regarding exhibition extensions or additional guided sessions. The institution maintains a consistent focus on educating the public about the intricacies of textile production, from traditional techniques to modern industrial applications.
The next confirmed opportunities to experience the guided tours of the Regards sur Tex-Union exhibition are scheduled for Saturday, May 23, 2026. As This represents a temporary exhibition focusing on a specific photographic collection, interested patrons should plan their visit accordingly. We invite our readers to share their thoughts on the importance of preserving industrial memories in local museums—please leave a comment below or share this article with those interested in history and photography.