Tomaselli Collection

Tomaselli Collection Lyon: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Tomaselli Collection, located in the lively 9th arrondissement of Lyon, France, stands as a premier cultural institution celebrating the city’s rich artistic legacy. Founded by Lyon-native Jérôme Tomaselli, a passionate collector and advocate for the region’s underappreciated artists, the collection has grown over three decades to include more than 2,500 works spanning from the 16th century to the present. The collection is renowned for its dynamic exhibition spaces, innovative curatorial approach, and dedication to both the preservation and reinvigoration of Lyon’s unique artistic heritage.

Whether you’re an art aficionado, historian, or casual visitor, the Tomaselli Collection invites you to explore the evolution of Lyonnais art through historical masterpieces and contemporary creations, all within a modern, accessible venue. This comprehensive guide details everything you need to plan your visit, from practical information on visiting hours and tickets to highlights of the collection and recommendations for other nearby Lyon historical sites (Tomaselli Collection Official Website; Histoire des Arts Lyon; Tribune de Lyon).

Origins and Development

Founding Vision

Jérôme Tomaselli established the collection out of a lifelong dedication to Lyon’s artistic scene, inspired by formative visits to local museums and a desire to elevate Lyonnais art within the broader narrative of French and European culture (histoire-des-arts.enseigne.ac-lyon.fr). Over thirty years, Tomaselli’s scholarly yet personal approach led to the acquisition of a broad spectrum of works, always with a focus on representing the diversity and evolution of art in Lyon and its surrounding region (tomaselli-collection.com).

Growth and Diversity

The collection’s chronological span—from the 16th century to works by living artists—enables visitors to trace the development of regional styles, techniques, and themes. Key movements and artists represented include:

17th & 18th Centuries: Early works, including the influence of the École Gratuite de dessin, highlight Lyon’s emergence as a creative center (histoire-des-arts.enseigne.ac-lyon.fr).
19th Century: The Lyon School, featuring Pierre-Charles Comte, Joseph Guichard, and Louis Janmot, illustrates the city’s influence on national and international art.
20th & 21st Centuries: Modern and contemporary works ensure the collection remains vibrant and relevant, reflecting ongoing artistic dialogues within Lyon (jds.fr).

The Exhibition Space

Opened in November 2022 at 22 rue Laure Diebold, the Tomaselli Collection’s dedicated venue offers over 600 square meters of gallery space, divided into flexible rooms for permanent and rotating exhibitions. The modern design supports frequent updates, thematic rehangs, and community events, creating a continually evolving experience (tomaselli-collection.com). The space also hosts educational programs, guided tours, and cultural happenings, embedding the collection within Lyon’s creative community.

Highlights and Notable Works

Historical Paintings: “Alain Chartier et Marguerite d’Écosse” by Pierre-Charles Comte (1859), and “La Ronde” by Louis Janmot are emblematic of the region’s 19th-century artistic achievements (histoire-des-arts.enseigne.ac-lyon.fr).
Lyonnais Landscapes: Topographical views of the Île Barbe, Fourvière, Croix-Rousse, and the Saône River provide a visual chronicle of Lyon’s ever-changing urban and natural environment.
Floral and Decorative Art: A strong focus on floral motifs, central to Lyon’s silk industry, is exemplified in exhibitions like “L’art de la fleur à Lyon” (7alyon.com).
Drawings and Graphic Works: The collection includes a significant array of works on paper, from classical studies to avant-garde experiments.

Visiting Information

Location and Transport

Address: 22 rue Laure Diebold, 69009 Lyon
Metro: Gare de Vaise (Line D)
Bus: C6, C14, C31 (Tissot stop)
Parking: Several public lots within walking distance

Opening Hours and Tickets

Standard Hours: Tuesday to Saturday, 10:30 am – 5:30 pm (closed Sundays, Mondays, and select holidays)
Admission: €10 adults; €6 students/job seekers; free for under 18s and visitors with disabilities
Ticketing: Onsite or online for convenience (official website)

Accessibility

The venue is wheelchair accessible, with elevators and facilities to support all visitors. Assistance is available upon request.

Guided Tours and Events

Guided tours (€15) offer in-depth insights and are available for individuals or groups by reservation. The collection also hosts masterclasses, lectures, and community events, with programming frequently updated (tomaselli-collection.com).

Photography

Photography for personal use is permitted in most areas. High-quality images and virtual tours are available online.

Institutional Collaborations and Outreach

The Tomaselli Collection regularly collaborates with major institutions, such as the Musée Jean Couty and Musée d’Orsay, lending works for research and exhibitions (histoire-des-arts.enseigne.ac-lyon.fr). Outreach includes educational programming, digital engagement, and partnerships with schools and local organizations (tomaselli-collection.com).

The Tomaselli Collection’s Role and Impact

Preserving Lyonnaise Heritage

By focusing exclusively on Lyonnais artists and themes, the Tomaselli Collection addresses historical gaps and ensures ongoing research into regional art history (Tomaselli Collection - About; Tribune de Lyon).

Fostering Networks and Championing Diversity

The collection highlights the interconnectedness of Lyon’s artists with other centers like Paris and Rome (Musée d’Orsay Hypotheses), and is particularly dedicated to underrepresented groups, notably women artists such as Henriette Morel, Émilie Charmy, and Georgette Agutte.

Supporting Contemporary Creation

Active acquisitions of works by living artists, including emerging talents, ensure the collection remains at the forefront of Lyon’s evolving art scene (Tomaselli Collection - About).

Educational and Community Engagement

Education is at the heart of the Tomaselli Collection’s mission. Programs for schools and adults, including guided tours, lectures, and workshops, foster deeper appreciation and community ties. Partnerships with local artists and institutions encourage collaborative projects and public art initiatives, nurturing Lyon’s creative ecosystem (Musée d’Orsay Hypotheses).

Recent and Upcoming Exhibitions

Regular temporary exhibitions, such as “La Modernité à Lyon: 1900–1925,” “L’Art de la Fleur à Lyon,” and “Masculin Féminin: La beauté du XVIIème siècle à nos jours,” offer fresh perspectives on the city’s artistic output (Tribune de Lyon). The collection also participates in events like European Heritage Days and Nuit des Musées.

For current programming, consult the Tomaselli Collection Official Site.

Practical Visitor Tips

Combine Your Visit: After exploring the Tomaselli Collection, nearby landmarks such as the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the Roman Theatres, and Old Lyon are easily accessible and enrich your cultural itinerary.
Amenities: The collection provides wheelchair access, multilingual staff, and comfortable facilities.
Stay Updated: Download the Audiala mobile app for audio guides and follow the collection’s social media for news and exhibition previews.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the opening hours?
A: Tuesday to Saturday, 10:30 am – 5:30 pm; closed Sundays and Mondays.

Q: How much are tickets?
A: €10 for adults; €6 reduced; free for under 18s and visitors with disabilities.

Q: Is the venue accessible?
A: Yes, the museum is fully accessible and equipped for reduced mobility.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, for €15; book in advance online or by phone.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Yes, non-flash photography for personal use is allowed.

Q: What nearby sites can I visit?
A: Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon, and the Croix-Rousse district.

Conclusion

The Tomaselli Collection is a vibrant celebration of Lyon’s artistic heritage, bridging centuries of creativity and innovation. With its comprehensive exhibitions, educational initiatives, and accessible facilities, it stands as a must-visit for anyone seeking to understand and experience Lyon’s cultural identity. Plan your visit, explore its treasures, and discover the enduring spirit of Lyonnais art.