Lille Métropole Museum of Modern, Contemporary and Outsider Art (LAM)
Home to one of France’s most significant modern and contemporary art collections, Lille Métropole Museum of Modern, Contemporary and Outsider Art was established in 1983. Wander the museum’s expansive gallery spaces and collection and view highlights that include works by Picasso, Modigliani, Miró, and other modernist luminaries.
The Basics
Located on the edge of the city in a strikingly modern building complex, LaM displays upwards of 7,000 works, including pieces by Alexander Calder, Georges Braque, Fernand Léger, and other boundary-pushing modern artists. Walk its galleries to see a large array of contemporary art, as well as one of the biggest collections of “outsider art”—works made by self-taught artists—in the country. For savings, visit LaM as part of the Lille City Pass.
Things to Know Before You Go
LaM reopened after extensive renovations in 2010; architect Manuelle Gautrand designed its extension, which resembles etched, cream-colored boxes.
The museum is accessible to those with limited mobility, and wheelchairs can be reserved at the front desk.
Strollers are permitted in the museum.
The LaM Café is open during museum hours and serves hot drinks, savory entrees, and desserts.
The LaM bookstore is open during museum hours, with a break for lunch.
How to Get There
LaM is located on the eastern edge of Lille in the village of Villeneuve-d’Ascq. It's situated on the verdant Parc du Héron. By public transportation, take Metro line 1 to Pont de Bois and transfer to bus lines 6 or 32; or take Metro line 2 to Fort de Mons and transfer to bus line 6. By car, the 7-mile (12-kilometer) drive from Lille to the museum takes roughly 20 minutes on the N227 or N356.
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The LaM is open Tuesday–Sunday, from midmorning to evening; it is closed each year on Jan. 1, May 1, and Dec. 25. In addition to its permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, so it’s worth planning repeat visits. Its event schedule includes talks, guided gallery visits, late-opening nights, and more.
Sculpture Park
In addition to its indoor gallery areas, the LaM is also host to a sculpture park featuring works by artists the likes of Alexander Calder and Pablo Picasso. If the weather is fine, pair your museum visit with an outdoor wander—the park is open Tuesday–Sunday, from 9am–6pm.
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