Les Ritals

The slang term “Ritals” — a reference to the different waves of Italian immigration in France in the 20th century and its negative connotation — refers to the common origins of the artists presented in the exhibition. But beyond this obvious link and the dialogue between different generations, the term also hints at the problems of acceptance and rejection. Misunderstanding, repulsion, scandal… The reception of the works of these precursors did not proceed smoothly at any time. The division generated by novelty impressed but also fueled inspiration, admiration and even encouraged the meeting of these seven artists. It has also opened new paths for their successors.

From rupture to celebration, including criticism and provocation, the exhibition “Les Ritals”
sheds light on the common points and the links between the works of these seven major artists (including Filippo Tommaso Marinetti, Armando Testa). A personal and untold story of artistic camaraderie is told, where each artist represents both a revelation and an inspiration to the one before and the one after.