Conference

Description

After Rodin, the last years of Rilke in ValaisFriday, October 2, 2026 at 6:30 PMA conference by Professor Jacques Berchtold, director of the prestigious Martin Bodmer Foundation in Cologny and member of the Maurice Zermatten Foundation Council in SionAn exceptional meeting around RODIN ACCORDING TO RILKEorganized by the Rodin Museum, ParisArtistic life is made up of decisive encounters. Today as yesterday. Countess Baladine Klossowska met Rilke in Paris in 1907, thanks to her husband's friendship with the poet, after their years of study in Germany. Rainer Maria Rilke, who was Rodin's secretary for eight months, published a remarkable analysis of the great sculptor's work. Fifty years later, in a work dedicated to Alice Bodmer, the Valaisan author Maurice Zermatten recounts Rilke's stay in Valais (1919-1926). Refugee at Muzot Castle, thanks to patron Werner Reinhart, the poet overcomes a long period of creative sterility. This literary renaissance culminates in February 1922 with the completion of the Duino Elegies and the writing of the Sonnets to Orpheus. This creative miracle owes much to the painter Baladine Klossowska, who became Rilke's muse and companion. For him, she arranges the Muzot refuge, then agrees to fade away so that the inspiring

Highlights

• Lecture by Professor Jacques Berchtold
• Focus on Rilke and Rodin
• Friday, October 2, 2026 at 6:30 PM

General Information

The conference explores the relationship between Rainer Maria Rilke and Auguste Rodin, highlighting Rilke's years in Valais. Organized by the Rodin Museum in Paris, it will be held at the Pierre Gianadda Foundation in Martigny.

Location

Rue du Forum 59, 1920 Martigny, Switzerland

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