Niki de Saint Phalle’s “Nikification”: Les Trois Grâces on display in Germany for the first time

The relationship between Niki de Saint Phalle and Germany tends to be passed over in art history writing. But this relationship is both deep-rooted and formative. “Nikification. Niki de Saint Phalle and Germany” at Galerie Judin brings that deep connection to light and places at its centre a sculptural group never before seen in Germany: “Les Trois Grâces.”

Les Trois Grâces: Nanas Arriving in Germany for the First Time

Niki de Saint Phalle’s “Nana” series is among the most recognised figurative works in modern art. These female sculptures, covered in vivid colours and freely moving, have entered the iconography of feminist art since the 1960s.

“Les Trois Grâces” was conceived in the 1990s as an act of tribute to the reunification of Berlin, and for a fountain at Lützowplatz. This group of three large-scale Nana sculptures is being exhibited in Germany for the first time in this show — completing a narrative: works made for Germany are finally standing inside German gallery walls.

The German Connection

The exhibition reveals less-known dimensions of Saint Phalle’s relationship with Germany. The artist carried out significant public projects in Germany, particularly in the 1970s and 80s. This experience profoundly shaped both her production and how she thought about public space.

Prepared in collaboration with the Niki Charitable Art Foundation and accompanied by a catalogue published by Verlag der Buchhandlung Walther und Franz. Monopol Magazin published a review titled “Nikis Grazien haben recht behalten” — signalling that the exhibition has found strong resonance in the local press.

FAQ: “Nikification”

• When and where is the exhibition?

“Nikification. Niki de Saint Phalle and Germany” runs 4 July – 22 August 2026 at Galerie Judin, Potsdamer Straße 83, 10785 Berlin.

• Why is “Les Trois Grâces” significant?

Conceived in the 1990s for a fountain at Lützowplatz as a tribute to the reunification of Berlin, this group of three large-scale Nana sculptures is being exhibited in Germany for the first time.

• Who was Niki de Saint Phalle?

1930–2002, French-American painter and sculptor. Known for her “Nana” series and the “Tarot Garden” in France. A pioneer of public art practice and feminist perspectives in art.

NO-26 Note

If you are in Berlin through mid-August, this exhibition deserves a place on the list. Seeing “Les Trois Grâces” in Germany is now a temporary opportunity.