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Miniatures & Matte Painting : plongez dans l’art des illusions du cinéma !

Exhibitions

Last updated date : 09/04/2026

From April 4th, the museum unveils two new spaces dedicated to the art of illusion: the grand return of the World of Miniatures and a brand-new gallery devoted to matte painting, one of the first special effect in cinema history !

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From April 4th, the museum invites visitors to experience a unique journey into the world of visual illusion with the opening of two new spaces dedicated to the partial return of miniature art and to matte painting, two essential disciplines in the creation of imaginary worlds.

The World of Miniatures, a signature feature of the museum, makes its long-awaited return in a newly redesigned gallery. Carefully restored, these strikingly realistic scenes invite visitors to observe everyday moments recreated at a miniature scale with remarkable precision. Created by internationally renowned artists such as Ronan-Jim Sevellec, Alan Wolfson, and Charles Matton, these works poetically explore the boundary between illusion and reality.

The visit continues with a brand-new space dedicated to matte painting, a key technique in cinematic visual effects. Originally painted by hand on glass, this method allows filmmakers to create monumental landscapes, imaginary cities, and spectacular architecture that would otherwise be impossible to film. Through a selection of original works by artists such as Albert Whitlock, Michael Pangrazio, and Rocco Gioffre — rarely displayed to the public — this gallery reveals the secrets behind these impressive cinematic illusions.

Between meticulous miniature detail and monumental visual illusion, this exhibition invites visitors of all ages to discover how art and cinema come together to create extraordinary worlds. A captivating and immersive experience to enjoy throughout the season.

Practical information

Address

60 rue Saint Jean - 69005 Lyon 5ème

Languages

English, French

Prices

Full price: 22.90 €, Reduced price: 19.90 € (Reduced with the Lyon City Card), Child (4-15 years): 17.90 €. Free entry for children under 4.

Openings

From 04/04/2026.
The museum is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tuesday from 1:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Open every day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. during school holidays, weekends and public holidays.

Accessibility

  • Accessible for wheelchairs with assistance
  • Accessible for self-propelled wheelchairs

Exhibitions

Miniatures & Matte Painting : plongez dans l’art des illusions du cinéma !

Cinema and Miniature Museum

60 rue Saint Jean - 69005 Lyon 5ème

expositions.museeminiatureetcinema.fr/en/

I go by alternative transportation

Subway: Line D, station "Vieux Lyon - Cathédral Saint Jean". Bus C27 stop " Vieux Lyon Cat. Saint-Jean" Car Park : Saint Jean or Saint Georges.

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This experience is at a preferential rate or fully included with your Lyon City Card. Access the best tourist sites, museums, seasonal events and public transport in Lyon and the surrounding area with just one card.

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