Alphonse Mucha: Master of Art Nouveau

July 11, 2026 — November 1, 2026

Alphonse Mucha (Czech, 1860-1939) Gismonda, 1894. Color lithograph on paper mounted on linen.

This summer, immerse yourself in le Style Mucha. Czech artist Alphonse Mucha (1860-1939) is celebrated as the quintessential Art Nouveau draftsman. His work celebrated the strength, sensuality, and decorative potential of the female form and created a sensation in Belle Époque Paris that still reverberates today.

This exhibition includes more than 70 examples of his work, including the 7” tall Gismonda poster commissioned by Sarah Bernhardt, which rocketed him to fame in early 1895. Mucha’s career and influence will be examined, as well as the inherent conflicts involved in simultaneously celebrating and objectifying women. Come for the beauty, stay for the thought-provoking examination of this distinct period in art history.

The exhibition opens with a special public celebration on Friday, July 10, coinciding with the museum’s first Garden Night of the season. Guests will enjoy after-hours access to the galleries, live entertainment, refreshments, and the opportunity to experience one of the most anticipated exhibitions of the year.

Alphonse Mucha: Master of Art Nouveau exhibition and museum tour organized by Landau Traveling Exhibitions, Los Angeles, CA.
Major funding for the Hagerstown Presentation has been provided by Nora & Bruce Wilder.