Scolaire

Discovering the Maison Jean Cocteau

A multifaceted artist, Jean Cocteau always saw himself as a poet. Shortly after the release of his famous film Beauty and the Beast, he fled Paris for Milly-la-Forêt in 1947, where he said he found a “setting”. His home until his death in 1963, this outbuilding of the Château de la Bonde is a true refuge inviting reverie. Steeped in his memories and brought to life by his objects, the house by the water offers a collection of preserved rooms (the living room, the antechamber…) as well as interesting temporary exhibitions. Property of the Île-de-France Region since 2019, the Maison Jean Cocteau can now be discovered through workshops and guided tours led by a mediator. Depending on the class level or the teacher’s project, several formats of participatory experiences are offered to provide an approach adapted to the poet’s universe.

What do we offer?

Preschool

  • Storytelling tour: The discovery of the premises is structured around a tale in which each child becomes the main character through an enchanting treasure hunt.
  • “Create Your Chimera” workshop: Introduction to the language of sculpture through the poet’s rich bestiary.

Elementary School (Grades 1-5)

  • Discovery tour: Students meet Jean Cocteau, an atypical character for whom mystery and poetry are at the heart of his daily life.
  • “Young Poet” workshop: Introduction to the artist’s hybrid poems, blending writing and drawing.
  • “Sketch Your Chapel” workshop: Walking in the poet’s footsteps, students use drawing to capture the garden plants on the spot and create their own wall decoration inspired by the frescoes of the Saint-Blaise-des-Simples chapel. This activity follows on from the exhibition currently presented at the Maison Jean Cocteau, detailing the poet’s entire creative process.

Middle School and High School

  • Discovery tour: Immersion in Jean Cocteau’s universe, between mystery and poetry, through the House’s decorations and his numerous works.
  • “Reveal Your Poem” workshop: An exploration of Jean Cocteau’s creative spirit and his taste for experimentation. Using excerpts from his writings (novels, poetry, etc.), students take hold of his words to craft a poetic composition. As the poet said, “A literary masterpiece is never more than a dictionary in disorder.”

You are welcome to contact us for any additional information: reservation@www.cocteau.mathilde-letard.com