Night of Museums 2026 in Essonne (91): Nighttime Artistic Performance at Jean Tinguely's Cyclop

The Night of Museums is making its way back into the cultural venues and museums of Paris and Île-de-France this Saturday, May 23, 2026. This special nocturnal event also unveils some surprising discoveries, including Le Cyclop—a monumental sculpture crafted by Jean Tinguely and Nikki de Saint Phalle—hidden away in the woods of Milly-la-Forêt. An unconventional evening awaits during this 22nd edition.

Attention all art and culture enthusiasts! The Night of the Museums is making its return on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Once again, it will transform the biggest institutions, magnificent castles, the most creative and arty venues, as well as some lesser-known gems, into vibrant, open-to-the-public cultural hotspots.

What's Museum Night? It's an annual event, particularly in Paris and the Île-de-France region, during which museums open their doors late into the evening and offer free artistic and cultural activities to all visitors. An exceptional nocturne offering art lovers and the curious an opportunity to discover fine collections in a festive and convivial atmosphere, often enhanced by artistic performances, concerts and a variety of other activities.

The Nuit des Musées is also an opportunity to discover surprising cultural sites such as Le Cyclop, a monumental sculpture designed by Jean Tinguely and Nikki de Saint Phalle in the 60s, and located in the woods of Milly-la-Forêt (91). A true homage to Greek mythology, this fascinating creation measures over 22 meters in height, and depicts a Cyclops with a jovial face, and a wheel for a single eye. Made of metal and concrete, it features numerous mechanisms and machines in motion, creating a captivating visual and aural spectacle.

Le Cyclop stands as a one-of-a-kind masterpiece blending kinetic art, sculpture, and architecture. It continues to showcase the boldness and boundless creativity of the artist couple, offering visitors a truly visual and sensory experience.

For the Nuit des Musées 2026, Le Cyclop has lined up some enchanting surprises under the moonlight, nestled within the forest.

Schedule for the 2026 Night of Museums featuring Jean Tinguely's Cyclop and Nikki de Saint Phalle

Spectacular sound and light show!
Saturday, May 23, 2026 - 9:30 PM to 11:30 PM
As part of the 2026 artistic programming for Cyclop, experience a captivating sound and light performance featuring Nina Garcia, armed with her electric guitar. A burst of flashing lights designed by Christophe Cardoen guides the experience, complemented by intricate tap dance on metal and mirrors by Anna Gaïotti, and a powerful drum set played by Romain Simon. This sensory journey is masterfully curated by Étienne Foyer, concluding in a raw burst of energy. His saturated, improvised sounds serve as a metaphor for a voice that refuses silence—a bold artistic gesture wrestling with the noise of the world.