BONNARD MUSEUM and KITTY SHPIRER
A UNIQUE COLLABORATION FOR AN IMMERSIVE
OLFACTORY JOURNEY
"These subtle correspondences between scents and colors invite a fresh perception of the works, creating a dialogue between vision, scent, and sensation.", Véronique Serrano, chief curator, Bonnard Museum.
From June 27 to October 31, 2026, the Bonnard Museum in Le Cannet will present the exhibition “Bonnard Intime: Les Toilettes de Marthe,” enhanced by a unique olfactory experience. This is an exceptional collaboration between the Bonnard Museum and Kitty Shpirer, an independent perfume creator. At the request of the Bonnard Museum, Kitty has created a bespoke olfactory journey to bring a new sensory dimension to Bonnard’s works. Near a selection of artworks—displayed on discreet wall-mounted consoles reminiscent of those from the 1930s—are six scent dispensers created by Kitty Shpirer, inspired by the artist’s paintings. Visitors are invited to approach them and gently discover the fragrance. This simple, intimate gesture echoes the scenes of bathing, grooming, and moments of intimacy so prevalent in Pierre Bonnard’s work. The olfactory palette comprises six fragrances, each conceived as a sensitive evocation of a theme dear to the artist. Throughout the exhibition, each fragrance is accompanied by a text by Kitty Shpirer describing the atmosphere and inspirations behind these creations.
Kitty Shpirer discusses her creative process: “Creating the six fragrances for Bonnard Intime was an invitation to gently step into the world of Pierre Bonnard. My intention was not to describe the works through scent, but to reveal a subtle resonance, leaving everyone free to interpret them in their own way. Each creation is born from a careful observation of the paintings: the light, the colors, the materials, the objects, and the atmosphere. To these visual impressions, I added an essential dimension: that of time. The era in which the works were created guided me in my choice of materials and scent combinations, so as to remain faithful to their olfactory identity. I see perfume as a bridge between the visitor and the artwork. It opens up a space where memories, emotions, and the imagination converge, offering a different way to engage with the painting.”. I invite you to come and enjoy a unique experience with Bonnard.
Le gant de crin
1942
Huile sur toile, 130,1 x 59 cm
Collection particulaière
A moment of sensuality in the intimicy of your own home.
Orange blossom with hints of cologne and soap.
The scent of a warm body with subtle musky and woody notes.
Huile sur toile, 85,3 x 74,5 cm
Paris, musée d'Orsay, donation Marcie-Rivière
Amid a rhythmic ritual of warm and cool hues, a moment of pleasure and freshness emerges.
The shaded room fills with the scent of water, soap, and wet skin.
Atelier au Mimosa
1939-1946
Huile sur toile, 127,5 x 127,5 cm
Paris, musée national d'Art moderne, Centre Pompidou
The joy of early spring during the war.
The vibrancy of yellow, which comforts and awakens the senses.
The warm, powdery scent of mimosa wafting through the studio.
The smell of paint as it dries….
La toilette ou Nu au miroir
1931
Huile sur toile, 154 x 104,5 cm
Fondazione Musei Civici di Venezia,
Galleria Internazionale d'Arte Moderna di Ca' Pesaro
In the privacy of the bedroom, in front of the mirror,
with a touch of coquetry…
Soft lighting surrounded by textured fabrics.
Vintage makeup and perfumes mingle in the air.
La cheminée
dit aussi Femme à sa toilette
1916
Huile sur toile, 81 x 111 cm
Fondation d'art Pauline
The beauty of blossoming youth.
A subtle tension in a warm,
reddish atmosphere.
A Japanese-inspired exoticism evokes the gardenia.
Sensual and creamy, deep and textured.
Jaune fille au bain lavant les cheveux
1893
Huile sur bois parquete
16,5 x 27 cm
Collection particulaière
Femme se lave les pieds
1894
Huile sur bois, 41,6 x 33,7 cm
Collection particulaière
In the dark intimacy of the night, space disappears.
The skin exudes a musky, soothing scent.
The air is thick with woody notes;
Scents of roses and warm, powdery violets.
