This exhibition explores the theme of travel as a metaphysical experience in which physical or imaginary displacement leads to a profound self-enquiry. The quest for the reality of the Self through the experience of the Other characterizes the renewal of the traditional theme of the journey as self-discovery in late nineteenth and twentieth century French literature. This exhibit is linked to Voyage et Exotisme, an upper-division French offering, whose focus is on protagonists who delight in stationary voyages through memory, dreaming, art contemplation, or reading. To emulate their experiences, this small selection of paintings and engravings, drawn from the permanent collection of the Ruth Chandler Williamson Gallery, inspires a wide range of imaginary voyages.
For further information concerning this exhibit, please contact Professor Vera Klekovkina.