A contemporary art museum opened Thursday in Grand-Bassam, a UNESCO World Heritage coastal town in Ivory Coast. The facility occupies a renovated colonial-era building that previously housed postal and customs operations. Twenty-eight artists from nine African nations display works spanning painting, sculpture, photography and design in the inaugural exhibition. Officials preserved the structure's original red brick architecture, wooden windows and elevated ceilings during restoration.
The House of Art features permanent and temporary gallery spaces alongside artist workshops and meeting areas. Culture Minister Francoise Remarck described the venue as vital for cultural preservation and promotion. The collaboration between government officials and Societe Generale Foundation made the project possible. Artists welcomed the new facility, citing limited gallery options throughout the West African nation.
The House of Art features permanent and temporary gallery spaces alongside artist workshops and meeting areas. Culture Minister Francoise Remarck described the venue as vital for cultural preservation and promotion. The collaboration between government officials and Societe Generale Foundation made the project possible. Artists welcomed the new facility, citing limited gallery options throughout the West African nation.
