At the turn of the 20th century, few creative partnerships were as dazzling—or as influential—as that between Czech artist Alphonse Mucha (1860–1939) and legendary French actress Sarah Bernhardt (1844–1923). Together, they helped define the look and spirit of Art Nouveau, a movement that swept across Europe with its graceful lines, flowing forms, and celebration of beauty rooted in nature.

Mucha’s Muses: Sarah Bernhardt and the Spirit of Art Nouveau highlights how Bernhardt, one of the most famous performers of her time, became Mucha’s muse, collaborator, and friend. His striking posters for her plays launched his international career and redefined the visual language of celebrity. Featuring women with cascading hair, haloed by chrysanthemums, stars, and vines, these works elevated advertisement into high art.

Bernhardt’s story also has a Kansas City connection. She performed here during her international tours, and a special interactive in the exhibition explores her visit and its local impact.

Through a small selection of Mucha’s works and other art nouveau objects from the Nelson-Atkins collection, this focus exhibition invites reflection on the idealization of women, the fusion of art and theater, and how visual culture shaped modern identities at the dawn of a new century.

Organized by The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.