Presentation of the Collections

The works of modern and contemporary art range from 1934 (Alberto Magnelli) for the oldest to 2020 for the most recent acquisition (Teresa Margolles). In addition to the expected works - paintings, sculptures, videos, photographs, drawings, prints - the reserves are full of curiosities such as a bed, a caravan, a protocol for a decomposing work, child-delivery chairs, oil drums, etc.

The historical collection
Focusing on artists active from the 1950s onwards, the modern collection illustrates numerous artistic trends or tendencies born from the Second World War, such as lyrical abstraction, art brut, informal art and Cobra.

The Abattoirs’ collection houses in its dedicated space the exceptional stage curtain by Picasso, La Dépouille du Minotaure en costume d'Arlequin. Created by the artist in 1936 with the collaboration of Luis Fernández, this immense work (8.30 x 13.25 m) was created for 14 Juillet, a play by Romain Rolland performed at the Théâtre du peuple on 14 July 1936. Picasso donated the work to the city of Toulouse in the 1960s.

The contemporary collection
The contemporary collection is made up of several groups that link up with the modern collection, while opening up perspectives on the most current works. Initially oriented around a Mediterranean axis, the collection of Les Abattoirs, Musée - Frac Occitanie Toulouse has broadened its spectrum to the African and South American continents.

Their uniqueness also stems from the generosity of committed collectors and more particularly that of Daniel Cordier and Anthony Denney, historical supporters of Les Abattoirs.

In recent years, acquisitions have been oriented towards a parity of male and female representation, as have the exhibitions on offer.

The collections constitute a common heritage and a narrative of recent history. Its writing is renewed and refined as annual acquisitions, donations, deposits, but also rediscoveries, restorations, exhibitions, the views of artists, professionals and visitors, etc., are made, making it a rich and living material.