Sylvain Amic Named President of Musée d’Orsay and Musée de L’Orangerie in Paris
A New Leadership Era Begins
The art curator Sylvain Amic steps into a prestigious role as the new president of two of Paris’s most iconic museums, the Musée d’Orsay and Musée de l’Orangerie. At 56 years old, Amic takes the reins from Christophe Leribault, who has moved on to lead the historic Chateau de Versailles, located approximately 12 miles west of Paris.
Transition and Experience
Pierre-Emmanuel Lecerf had been serving as the interim president following Leribault’s departure to Versailles in February. Amic is set to begin his leadership at the museums on April 24. His background is impressive; prior to this, he worked as a museum and arts consultant for France’s Ministry of Culture. His focus was on enhancing art accessibility via traveling exhibitions throughout France.
A Rich Career in Arts and Education
Born in Dakar, Amic started his professional life as a teacher before pivoting to art curation in 1997. His extensive experience includes roles in Montpellier and as the director of three museums in Rouen. He has also curated numerous exhibitions both in France and internationally, including the Normandy Impressionist Festival.
Ministerial Endorsement and Vision
Rachida Dati, the French Culture Minister, praised Amic for the excellence of his vision and his innovative spirit. She highlighted his prior successes in Rouen and his commitment to expanding the reach of art. “I am pleased, along with the President of the Republic, to entrust him with the reins of one of the most important cultural institutions in our country,” Dati remarked.
A Record-Breaking Year
Under its previous leadership, the Musée d’Orsay and Musée de l’Orangerie achieved a milestone by welcoming 5.1 million visitors last year, setting a new attendance record. This underscores the ongoing popularity and significance of these cultural institutions in France and around the world.
Looking Ahead
With Amic’s leadership now secured, the art world watches eagerly to see how his innovative approaches and deep experience will influence these renowned institutions in the years to come.
