Fondation Cartier pour l'Art Contemporain

The Fondation Cartier, headed by Marie-Claude Beaud, opened in Jouy-en-Josas on October 20, 1984, with the inaugural exhibition Les Fers de César. The Fondation Cartier seeks to present the work of renowned French and international artists, as well as young artists with promising talents. Cartier International has become the leading private French company in the patronage of contemporary art, responsible and civic-minded – a unique example of corporate philanthropy in France.

In 1994, the Fondation Cartier moved to its new site in Paris, a building designed by the architect Jean Nouvel on the Boulevard Raspail. Dedicated to contemporary artists and creators, the space gives free reign to their imagination and creativity in making and exhibiting their works. The versatile glass building toys with transparency, reflecting the Fondation’s philosophy of modernity and openness to the world. In this unique setting, exhibitions, conferences and artistic productions come to life. The Fondation Cartier has thus established itself as a vital contemporary art institution extending an invitation to (re) discover artists in unexpected places.

In keeping with our era, the Fondation Cartier explores every field of creation: visual arts, science, architecture, design, fashion and film. In doing so, it asserts its expertise and commitment, combining rigor and eclecticism in seeking to make contemporary art accessible to all.

Every year, the Fondation Cartier concocts a program of thematic and solo exhibitions, and commissions artists for works, continually enriching its significant collection. Now comprising nearly 4000 works springing from its rich, multidisciplinary program, this collection attests to relationships that have been nurtured with over 500 artists from around the world.

© Luiz Zerbini

© Luc Boegly