The Fonds regional d’art contemporain in Lorraine was founded in 1984 with the purpose of supporting artistic creation in the region by forming and exhibiting an international-level art collection, and by raising public awareness of contemporary art. Following years of nomadism and “extramural” activities, the FRAC found in Metz a permanent home that measures up to its ambitions.
One of the oldest civic edifices in Metz, with foundations dating back to the end of the 12th century, Hôtel St-Livier is located in the very heart of the historic town center. Its renovation took form of a brilliant dialogue between the past and the present, between heritage and innovation. The architectural project, resolutely audacious and modern in character was led by Jean-François Bodin and his team, whose accomplishments include Musée Matisse in Nice; the renovation of the Musée national d’art moderne-Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris; and Cité de l’architecture in Paris. They have successfully adapted this location to its new purpose.
Since May 2004, FRAC Lorraine has thus operated in a place that makes it possible to coordinate all of its activities as a whole in an efficient manner, and, above all, to originate new artistic experiments. FRAC’s expanded mission is centered on multidisciplinary programming: performances, theater productions, contemporary poetry, and art critics’ residency programs.
Today, FRAC Lorraine enjoys wide national and international recognition in the world of contemporary art. At the same time, it has conquered the hearts of the Greater Region’s residents: since the day it opened in May 2004, over 30,000 visitors have passed through its doors every year, eager to discover FRAC’s projects and exhibitions.
