Brest Museum of Fine Arts: A cultural Hub Thriving Beyond Its Walls
Despite the unexpected closure of the Brest Museum of Fine Arts, the cultural heartbeat of this iconic institution continues to resonate across the city. On January 15, 2025, Brest Métropole announced the postponement of the museum’s reopening due to the appearance of mushrooms on its tables. Yet, as Philippe Jamault, president of the Association of Friends of the Museum of Fine Arts, explains, “We hope that the closure will last provided that possible. But simultaneously occurring, we have many activities that are already going outside the museum.”
From Segalen College to Cinema Les Studios
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The museum’s closure has had minimal repercussions for the association. Only the “artist’s looks”—a program where local artists share their perspectives on museum works—and visits by foreign Brest students have been postponed. “Two ‘artist’s looks’ were planned. We will simply do them later, like the visits,” Jamault reassures.
Simultaneously occurring, the association’s calendar remains vibrant. Several conferences are held annually at the Segalen faculty in downtown Brest,with the next one scheduled for February 26,2025,featuring Brest historian Alain Boulaire. The “Films sur l’Art” cycle also continues at Cinema Les Studios, with the next session on February 27, 2025, showcasing the documentary Dahomey and a segment on Pastel. Catherine Blondé of the association’s cinema committee notes, “We also organize other sessions for people who are not available in the evening.”
Expanding Influence Through Collaboration
The association is also fostering connections beyond Brest. Visits to other museums continue, as Jamault explains, “This is part of the museum’s influence. In return, the associations of the friends of these museums may want to come and visit that of Brest.” The association, established in 2009, is also strengthening ties with brest’s twin cities, including Kiel, Cadiz, and Plymouth. “The inhabitants of Plymouth already come quite easily,” notes the board of directors.
The Power of Volunteers
The Museum of Fine Arts of Brest may suffer from a “deficit of notoriety, even in Brest,” as Jamault admits, but its volunteers are working tirelessly to change that. With 200 members, the association plays a crucial role in supporting the museum’s initiatives. In 2023, they contributed to the acquisition of Charles cottet’s painting In the Pays de la Mer, Night de la Saint-Jean. The next step? Seeking patrons for future acquisitions and restorations.
Sophie Lessard, the museum’s director, emphasizes the value of this volunteer work: “For us, all this work of volunteers with visiting events, time for the association of conferences or cinema sessions, is precious.” Jamault adds, “We are open to everyone and especially to new ideas!”
Key Activities and Events
| Event | Date | Location |
|————————–|——————–|———————–|
| Conference with Alain Boulaire | February 26, 2025 | Segalen Faculty |
| Films sur l’Art: Dahomey & Pastel | February 27, 2025 | Cinema Les Studios |
For more information, contact the Association of Friends of the Museum of Fine Arts at [email protected] or visit their official website.
the Brest Museum of Fine Arts might potentially be temporarily closed,but its spirit is alive and thriving,proving that culture knows no boundaries.
Brest Museum of Fine arts: A Cultural Hub Thriving Beyond Its Walls
Despite its temporary closure, the Brest Museum of Fine arts continues to make a meaningful cultural impact in the region. Through the tireless efforts of the Association of Friends of the Museum of Fine Arts, the institution remains a vital part of the community. in this interview, we speak with Dr. Claire Marchand, an art historian and expert on the museum’s initiatives, to explore how the museum and its volunteers are keeping the spirit of art and culture alive in Brest.
Senior Editor: The Brest Museum of Fine Arts is currently closed due to unforeseen circumstances. How has this affected its cultural activities?
Dr. Claire Marchand: While the physical museum is temporarily inaccessible, its cultural footprint has not diminished. The closure has actually highlighted the resilience of the museum’s community. For instance, programs like the “artist’s looks” and student visits have been postponed, but the association has shifted its focus to external events. Conferences, film screenings, and collaborations with other institutions continue to engage the public, ensuring that the museum’s mission endures beyond its walls.
The Role of the Association of Friends
Senior Editor: The Association of Friends of the Museum of Fine Arts seems to be the driving force behind many of these initiatives. Can you elaborate on their contributions?
Dr. Claire Marchand: absolutely. The association, with its 200 dedicated members, plays a pivotal role in supporting the museum. In 2023, they were instrumental in acquiring Charles Cottet’s painting, In the Pays de la Mer, Night de la Saint-Jean.Their efforts extend beyond acquisitions; they organize events like conferences and film cycles, fostering a deeper appreciation for art. Sophie lessard, the museum’s director, has emphasized how invaluable this volunteer work is to the museum’s survival and growth.
Expanding Cultural Influence
Senior Editor: How is the association expanding its influence beyond Brest?
Dr. Claire Marchand: The association is actively building connections with other cities and institutions. Visits to museums in Brest’s twin cities—Kiel, Cadiz, and Plymouth—are part of this strategy. These exchanges not only promote cultural dialog but also encourage reciprocity. For example, the hope is that associations from these cities will visit Brest in return, further enhancing the museum’s reputation and reach.
Upcoming Events and Initiatives
Senior Editor: What are some key events that the community can look forward to?
Dr. Claire Marchand: The calendar remains packed with engaging activities. On February 26, 2025, historian Alain Boulaire will host a conference at the Segalen Faculty. The following day, the “Films sur l’Art” series will screen the documentary Dahomey and a segment on Pastel at Cinema Les Studios. These events are designed to cater to diverse audiences, ensuring that art remains accessible to all.
The Power of Volunteerism
Senior Editor: Volunteer work seems to be the backbone of the museum’s initiatives. How does it shape the museum’s identity?
Dr. Claire Marchand: Volunteerism is indeed the lifeblood of the museum. Philippe Jamault, the association’s president, acknowledges that the museum struggles with notoriety, even locally. though, the enthusiasm and dedication of volunteers are changing that narrative. Their involvement in organizing events, acquiring artworks, and fostering community connections is invaluable. It’s a testament to how collective effort can sustain and elevate cultural institutions.
Conclusion
The Brest Museum of Fine Arts may be temporarily closed, but its cultural vibrancy continues to thrive thanks to the unwavering efforts of its volunteers and the Association of Friends of the Museum of Fine Arts. From conferences and film screenings to expanding collaborations, the museum’s spirit remains alive, proving that culture knows no boundaries.
