Grand Patron Award, 2009
La Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain:
Grand Patron of the Ministry of Culture An honour rewarding 25 years of commitment
On Wednesday, June 3rd, La Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain received the “Grand Patron of the Ministry of Culture” award, which was presented by Christine Albanel at the Ministry of Culture and Communications.
This accolade, which was created in 2003, expresses the gratitude of the State to the committed companies, foundations, associations or private individuals that contribute to the enrichment of cultural life. Beyond La Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain, the award also recognises the citizenship and courage of a pioneering company that, since 1986, has campaigned to bring commerce and culture closer together through the publication of the ”French Patronage” report, a landmark document of our times. Neither a museum nor a gallery, the Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain is an unclassifiable institution with a distinct personality. Its aims, choices, commitments and operation are entirely independent and, as its President Alain Dominique Perrin explains, “it must demonstrate ambition, rigour, determination and confidence in its choices.” The prize also symbolises freedom and success, as the institution is set to become one of the leading participants in the development of contemporary art and corporate culture.
25 years on, the Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain is living proof that there is no sincerity without commitment and no freedom without generosity. Both of these notions are central to the enlightened patronage of which the company can be truly proud.
“Honour is the reward for patronage.”
Alain Dominique Perrin
grand mécène