On Thursday, May 15, 2025, Françoise Remarck, Minister of Culture and Francophonie, officially inaugurated the “Maison de l’Art” in Grand-Bassam, in the presence of a large delegation of political and cultural figures. This new space, dedicated to contemporary African art and the promotion of Ivorian heritage, is the result of a partnership with the Société Générale Côte d’Ivoire (SGCI) Foundation.

Located in the historic heart of Grand-Bassam, the museum is housed in the former Post and Customs Hotel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In her speech, Minister Remarck emphasized the need to expand access to culture, support contemporary artists, and create bridges between heritage, creation, and the public. She praised the collaboration between public institutions and private partners that made the project possible, highlighting its contribution to local development and cultural transmission.

“This museum is a space for expression, sharing, and reflection. It will help highlight talents from here and abroad, foster creativity, and make art accessible to as many people as possible,” declared Françoise Remarck.

The building was restored in accordance with UNESCO standards by Koffi & Diabaté Architects, combining historical preservation with modern cultural infrastructure. The museum includes two permanent exhibition rooms, a temporary exhibit hall, an artist residency, a café-restaurant, and several meeting spaces. Its aim is to encourage dialogue among artists, cultural professionals, and the broader public.

The opening exhibition, titled “Souffle”, sets the tone for a rich and diverse contemporary art program. The Maison de l’Art aspires to become a flagship venue for visual arts in Côte d’Ivoire and across Africa, contributing to the cultural and tourism growth of Grand-Bassam.

Patrick Blas, CEO of SGCI and President of the SGCI Foundation, expressed pride in the project's completion, calling it a strong commitment to culture, youth, and openness. François Bloch, Head of International Banking Networks in Africa at Société Générale, emphasized the group's long-standing support for the arts:
“We firmly believe that artistic diversity is an invaluable asset. The Maison de l’Art is a testament to our dedication to supporting African artists on both national and international stages.”

The museum will open to the public at the end of June 2025.
With the Maison de l’Art, Grand-Bassam now boasts a key cultural institution designed to nurture contemporary creation, preserve memory, and ensure broad access to art.