Why Was the Louis Vuitton Foundation Built?

The Louis Vuitton Foundation is a contemporary art museum and cultural center located in Paris, France. It was designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry and opened to the public in 2014. The foundation’s unique design incorporates a series of glass sails and curves, creating a stunning visual landmark in the Bois de Boulogne park.

But why was the Louis Vuitton Foundation built? What was its purpose and inspiration?

The foundation was established by Bernard Arnault, the CEO of LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy), a luxury goods conglomerate. Arnault is known for his passion for art and has been collecting contemporary artworks for decades. He envisioned creating a space to showcase his collection that would also serve as a cultural center for the public.

The Louis Vuitton Foundation’s mission statement is “to promote and support contemporary artistic creation for a wide French and international audience.” This statement reflects Arnault’s belief that art should be accessible to everyone, not just an exclusive few.

The foundation hosts temporary exhibitions featuring works from both emerging and established artists. It also offers educational programs, workshops, and guided tours to engage visitors of all ages with contemporary art. In addition, the foundation collaborates with other institutions around the world to bring diverse perspectives to its exhibitions.

The Louis Vuitton Foundation’s location in the Bois de Boulogne park was strategic. The park is one of Paris’ largest green spaces and is home to several other cultural institutions such as the Jardin d’Acclimatation amusement park, the Hippodrome de Longchamp racecourse, and the Fondation GoodPlanet environmental organization. By situating itself within this cultural hub, the Louis Vuitton Foundation contributes to Paris’ reputation as a global center for art and culture.

In conclusion, the Louis Vuitton Foundation was built with several objectives in mind: to showcase Bernard Arnault’s collection of contemporary art, to make art accessible to a wider public, and to contribute to Paris’ cultural landscape. Its unique design by Frank Gehry has made it an iconic landmark in the city, attracting visitors from around the world. The foundation’s dedication to promoting and supporting contemporary art ensures that it will continue to be a vital institution for years to come.