Musée Tomi Ungerer
- Historical Background
- Location and Accessibility
- Museum Highlights
- Interactive Activities
- Educational Programs:
- Events and Workshops
- Café and Museum Shop
- Guided Tours
- Accessibility
- Family-Friendly
- Hours and Admission
Historical Background
Tomi Ungerer, a renowned Alsatian illustrator and author, left an indelible mark on the world of children's literature and political satire. Born in Strasbourg in 1931, Ungerer's artistic journey began at an early age. His whimsical illustrations and witty storytelling captivated audiences worldwide, earning him numerous awards and accolades. The Musée Tomi Ungerer, located in his hometown, pays homage to his remarkable legacy and showcases his diverse body of work.
Ungerer's contributions to children's literature are particularly noteworthy. His books, such as "The Three Robbers" and "Crictor," have delighted generations of young readers with their imaginative plots and vibrant illustrations. His fearless approach to tackling social issues through satire earned him international recognition and cemented his status as a master of the genre.
The creation of the Musée Tomi Ungerer was a testament to the artist's deep connection to his Alsatian roots. Inaugurated in 2007, the museum was established to preserve and celebrate Ungerer's vast artistic output. It houses a comprehensive collection of his works, including original drawings, illustrations, and sculptures, providing visitors with a unique insight into his creative process and artistic vision.
Location and Accessibility
The Musée Tomi Ungerer is conveniently situated in the heart of Strasbourg, at 2 Avenue de la Marseillaise. Visitors can effortlessly reach the museum using public transportation, with multiple tram and bus lines stopping nearby. The closest tram stop, "Musée Tomi Ungerer," is just a short walk from the museum's entrance. For those arriving by car, ample parking is available in the nearby streets or in the underground parking lot of the Place de l'Homme de Fer, just 200 meters away.
Once you've arrived at the museum, you'll find yourself in a vibrant neighborhood surrounded by historical landmarks, charming cafes, and independent boutiques. Take advantage of this opportunity to explore the city's rich cultural heritage and indulge in the local culinary delights before or after your visit to the museum.
Museum Highlights
The Musée Tomi Ungerer houses a diverse collection of the artist's works, offering visitors a glimpse into his prolific career. Among the highlights is a series of original illustrations from his beloved children's books, such as "The Three Robbers" and "Crictor," which showcase his whimsical and imaginative style. Visitors can also admire a selection of his political cartoons and caricatures, which often tackled controversial topics with humor and satire. The museum also features a recreation of Ungerer's New York studio, providing a glimpse into his creative process and the influences that shaped his work. Additionally, the museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions showcasing the works of other contemporary illustrators and artists, further enriching the visitor experience.
Interactive Activities
For an engaging and interactive experience, the Tomi Ungerer Museum offers a variety of hands-on activities that appeal to visitors of all ages. Step into the "Playroom," a dedicated space where children can unleash their creativity and imaginations. Here, they'll find a treasure trove of toys, games, and art materials inspired by Ungerer's whimsical illustrations. Kids can draw, paint, build, and explore, immersing themselves in the world of their favorite characters.
Beyond the Playroom, the museum features interactive exhibits that invite visitors to engage with Ungerer's work in new and exciting ways. In the "Drawing Machines" section, for example, visitors can create their own drawings using mechanical contraptions that mimic Ungerer's unique style. The "Optical Illusions" exhibit showcases mind-bending visuals that play tricks on the eye, inviting visitors to question their perceptions.
These interactive elements transform the museum into a dynamic and immersive space, allowing visitors to not only admire Ungerer's art but also actively participate in the creative process. By encouraging hands-on exploration, the museum fosters a deeper understanding of Ungerer's artistic vision and inspires visitors to tap into their own creativity.
Educational Programs:
The Musée Tomi Ungerer places great emphasis on education and offers a diverse range of educational programs and workshops tailored to visitors of all ages and interests. Families and school groups are particularly encouraged to participate in these enriching experiences.
One of the highlights of the museum's educational offerings is the "Tomi's World" workshop, designed specifically for children aged 4 to Led by experienced museum educators, this interactive workshop invites children to explore Tomi Ungerer's whimsical world through storytelling, art activities, and hands-on exploration of the museum's exhibits.
For older students, the museum offers guided tours and workshops that delve deeper into Tomi Ungerer's artistic techniques, his literary works, and the historical context of his creations. These programs provide an excellent opportunity for students to engage with art, history, and literature in a meaningful way.
The museum also collaborates with local schools to develop educational programs that align with school curricula. These programs not only enhance students' understanding of Tomi Ungerer's work but also promote critical thinking, creativity, and cultural appreciation.
Through its educational programs, the Musée Tomi Ungerer fulfills its mission to inspire and educate visitors of all ages, fostering a lifelong love of art, literature, and creativity.
Events and Workshops
The Musée Tomi Ungerer is not just a static showcase of the artist's work; it is a vibrant cultural hub that hosts a variety of special events, workshops, and cultural programs throughout the year. These events add to the museum's dynamism and provide visitors with unique opportunities to engage with Tomi Ungerer's art and the world of illustration in new and exciting ways.
One of the highlights of the museum's event calendar is the annual Tomi Ungerer Festival. This multi-day festival celebrates the artist's life and work with a series of exhibitions, workshops, conferences, and performances. Visitors can attend lectures by renowned illustrators, participate in hands-on workshops, and enjoy live music and theater performances inspired by Ungerer's art.
The museum also organizes regular workshops and educational programs for children and adults. These workshops cover a wide range of topics, from illustration techniques to storytelling and creative writing. Participants can learn from experienced artists and educators, experiment with different materials and techniques, and create their own artworks inspired by Tomi Ungerer's unique style.
Whether you are a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the Musée Tomi Ungerer's events and workshops offer something for everyone. These programs provide a platform for creativity, learning, and cultural exchange, making the museum a truly immersive and engaging experience.
Café and Museum Shop
The Musée Tomi Ungerer offers a cozy café where visitors can take a break from their artistic exploration and enjoy a refreshing beverage or a light snack. The café provides a welcoming ambiance, allowing visitors to relax and soak in the museum's creative atmosphere while indulging in a delightful culinary experience.
Adjacent to the café is the well-stocked museum shop, a treasure trove of Tomi Ungerer-related merchandise and souvenirs. Visitors can browse through a diverse selection of books, prints, posters, and other unique items inspired by the artist's whimsical and satirical works. The museum shop also offers a range of educational materials, making it an ideal destination for parents and teachers seeking to enrich their children's understanding of art and literature.
Guided Tours
For a more enriching and comprehensive experience, visitors can opt for a guided tour of the Musée Tomi Ungerer. These tours are conducted by knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides who provide insightful commentary on the artist's life, works, and creative process. Guided tours are available in various languages, including English, French, German, and Spanish, ensuring accessibility to visitors from diverse backgrounds.
Reservations for guided tours can be made in advance through the museum's official website or at the museum's information desk. The tours typically last around 60-90 minutes and offer an in-depth exploration of the museum's collection, including the history, themes, and techniques behind Tomi Ungerer's artworks.
By participating in a guided tour, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the artist's unique style, his influences, and his contributions to the world of illustration and satire. The guides provide anecdotes, historical context, and insights that bring the exhibits to life and enhance the overall museum experience.
Accessibility
For visitors with disabilities, the Musée Tomi Ungerer is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment. The museum features wheelchair-accessible ramps and elevators, ensuring that all visitors can navigate the space with ease. Additionally, audio guides are available for visually impaired visitors, allowing them to explore the museum's collection in a comprehensive and accessible manner. The museum staff is also trained to assist visitors with disabilities, providing any necessary support or accommodations to enhance their visit. The museum's commitment to accessibility ensures that everyone can enjoy and appreciate the works of Tomi Ungerer and the museum's unique offerings.
Family-Friendly
The Musée Tomi Ungerer is committed to providing a welcoming and engaging environment for families with young children. The museum offers a range of amenities and programs designed to cater to the needs of families, making it an ideal destination for a fun and educational day out.
Stroller parking is available at the museum's entrance, allowing parents to conveniently store their strollers while exploring the exhibits. Changing tables are also provided in the restrooms for the convenience of parents with infants.
The museum offers a variety of family-friendly programs and activities throughout the year, including workshops, storytelling sessions, and guided tours specifically designed for children. These programs aim to engage young visitors with Tomi Ungerer's work and encourage them to explore their own creativity.
Family discounts are available on admission tickets, making it more affordable for families to visit the museum. The museum also offers a loyalty program that provides families with exclusive benefits and discounts on future visits.
Hours and Admission
The Musée Tomi Ungerer welcomes visitors from Tuesday to Sunday during specific hours. On Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, the museum is open from 10 am to 6 pm, while on Wednesdays and Sundays, it opens from 12 pm to 6 pm. It remains closed on Mondays.
Admission fees vary based on the type of visitor. Adults pay a standard fee, while reduced rates are available for students, seniors, and groups. Children under 18 years of age enjoy free admission, making it an excellent opportunity for families to engage in cultural activities. Additionally, the museum offers free admission on the first Sunday of every month, allowing visitors to explore the fascinating world of Tomi Ungerer without any financial burden.
