Symphony of colors: Paul Signac and Neo-Impressionism

Exhibition at the Museum Barberini, Potsdam, 4 July – 11 October 2026

At the last group exhibition of the Impressionists in 1886, artists who would later describe themselves as ‘Post-Impressionists’ presented their works in Paris. By juxtaposing unmixed colours, they sought to create an effect in their paintings that evoked pure light. Among these artists, Paul Signac sought to achieve the highest degree of luminosity and harmony by introducing, in the mid-1880s, a new style of painting to the art world, in collaboration with Georges Seurat.

This thoroughly researched exhibition catalogue offers an overview of Paul Signac’s artistic legacy and his decisive influence on the development of Neo-Impressionism. Through more than 70 works drawn from over 30 collections, it traces Signac’s evolution, from his early days as a young painter inspired by Seurat to his status as a pioneering figure who helped define one of the most radical approaches to modern painting. It situates Signac within a dynamic network of artists whose shared ideals and innovations shaped the Neo-Impressionist style.

Works by Seurat, Cross, Luce, van Rysselberghe and other artists — many of which were once part of Signac’s own collection — highlight the spirit of collaboration that animated the group.