"Artists of the 19th century share a community of spirit with digital artists today. They rebelled against academic rules, norms, and wanted to create something new, exploring new dimensions made possible by technology and science." - Pierre-Emmanuel Lecerf

Introduction

‍In an unprecedented fusion of 19th-century art and cutting-edge web3 technology, the Musée d’Orsay has embarked on a groundbreaking journey. Under the theme "How to Enter Web3 as a 19th Century Collections’ Museum," a panel of distinguished experts convened to explore this remarkable intersection. Moderated by Diane Drubay, Founder of We Are Museums, the panel featured Pierre-Emmanuel Lecerf, the General Administrator of Musée d’Orsay, Vinciane Jones, Project Manager at Trilitech, and Agoria, a renowned artist and DJ.

Panelists

1. Pierre-Emmanuel Lecerf: With over two decades of experience at the Musée d’Orsay, Pierre-Emmanuel spearheaded the museum's foray into the digital realm, embracing web3 technology to bridge the gap between traditional art and contemporary innovation.
2. Vinciane Jones: As the Project Manager at Trilitech, Vinciane brought her expertise in web3 technology, particularly within the Tezos ecosystem, to facilitate the collaboration between Musée d’Orsay and digital artists, fostering a new era of artistic expression.
3. Agoria: Renowned as both a DJ and artist, Agoria's unique perspective offered insights into merging the majesty of 19th-century art with the modernity of digital innovation, as showcased in his collaboration with Musée d’Orsay.

Key Points

• The Artistic Journey: Pierre-Emmanuel outlined the museum's journey into the realm of web3, emphasizing the natural synergy between 19th-century art and contemporary digital expression. This journey began with a recognition of the rebellious spirit shared by artists across different eras, united in their quest to challenge norms and embrace innovation.
• Collaborative Endeavors: Vinciane Jones highlighted the collaborative nature of the project, emphasizing the importance of partnerships within the Tezos community. Through collaborations with artists like Agoria and innovative platforms like Sigma Lumina, Musée d’Orsay extended its reach beyond traditional boundaries, engaging with a diverse audience.
• Accessibility and Impact: Agoria underscored the transformative impact of web3 technology, particularly within the Tesos community, where artists and collectors collaborate and support each other. Through projects like Sigma Lumina, digital art became accessible to a broader audience, transcending age barriers and fostering curiosity among museum visitors.

Conclusion

‍The convergence of 19th-century art and web3 technology at Musée d’Orsay represents a significant milestone in the evolution of artistic expression. By embracing collaboration, innovation, and accessibility, the museum has redefined the boundaries of traditional art, inviting audiences to embark on a journey of discovery and exploration. As the exhibition continues to captivate visitors, it serves as a testament to the enduring power of art to inspire, provoke, and unite across generations and technological frontiers.

Watch the full talk