Jean-Jacques Waltz was a staunch pro-French activist who frequently used his art to express opposition to German occupation.
The artist adopted the pseudonym 'Hansi' from his father's name, Jean, and his own name, Jacques.
Many of his illustrations are now considered key cultural symbols of the Alsatian identity.
The museum is housed in the Maison des Têtes, a Renaissance building famously adorned with 106 small sculptured heads.
Hansi's work was often used on postcards, books, and ceramic products, making his style ubiquitous in Alsace.
During the First World War, the German authorities issued an arrest warrant for Hansi due to his satirical anti-German illustrations.
The museum collection includes rare personal items and ephemera that provide insight into the artist's daily life.
The Village Hansi & its Museum is dedicated to the life and work of Jean-Jacques Waltz, a renowned Alsatian artist and illustrator who worked under the pseudonym 'Hansi'. Located within the historic Maison des Têtes, the museum preserves an extensive collection of his watercolors, original drawings, and lithographs. The exhibits showcase his idealized depictions of traditional Alsatian village life and regional folklore. Visitors can explore the historical evolution of his style, which often integrated patriotic themes related to the Alsace-Lorraine region. The venue also operates a gift shop featuring exclusive items derived from his iconic illustrations. The museum functions as a cultural archive for those interested in the visual heritage of 20th-century Alsace.
The ornate, multi-head facade of the Maison des Têtes building itself is the most iconic frame.
Combine your visit with a walk through the surrounding historic district of Old Colmar.
Look for the authentic Hansi-branded souvenirs in the shop, as they are specifically produced to support the museum collection.
Check the museum's temporary exhibition space, as it often hosts works from local artists inspired by traditional Alsatian themes.
Do not mistake the nearby souvenir shops for official museum exhibits; stick to the curated galleries within the Maison des Têtes.
Occasionally closed on Mondays during the low season.
