Serge Lasvignes, Former President of the Centre Pompidou and Chairman of the National Commission for the Control of Intelligence Techniques, Passes Away at 70
Introduction:
The art world and the public sector mourns the loss of Serge Lasvignes, a prominent figure who served as President of the Centre Pompidou from 2015 to 2021 and later as Chairman of the National Commission for the Control of Intelligence Techniques (CNCTR). He passed away on Sunday, February 16th, at the age of 70.
Career and Legacy:
Lasvignes’ career encompassed both the cultural and political spheres. Before his tenure at the Centre Pompidou, he served as Secretary-General of the Government from 2006 to 2015 under three different presidents. In this role, he was a staunch advocate for cultural interests and national security.
His appointment as President of the Centre Pompidou in 2015 came as a surprise to the cultural community, as he had no prior experience in the field. However, during his presidency, he firmly established the Centre Pompidou, the Bibliothèque Publique d’Information (BPI), and the Ircam (Institute for Research and Coordination in Acoustics/Music) as vibrant cultural hubs that embraced diverse audiences. He placed a strong emphasis on fostering dialogue within the institution.
In 2021, Lasvignes was appointed Chairman of the CNCTR, the regulatory body overseeing French intelligence services. He brought his extensive experience in the public sector to this role, contributing to the oversight and transparency of intelligence activities.
Tributes and Recognition:
Lasvignes’ passing has been met with profound sadness and tributes from across the cultural and political spectrum.
- Laurent Le Bon, Lasvignes’ successor as President of the Centre Pompidou: "Serge Lasvignes was a visionary leader who dedicated his life to serving the nation. He leaves behind a legacy of cultural enrichment and intellectual rigor."
- Rachida Dati, Former Minister of Justice: "France has lost a great statesman and I have lost a dear friend. Serge Lasvignes was a tireless defender of cultural interests and national security."
- Valérie Pécresse, President of the Ile-de-France region: "We mourn the passing of Serge Lasvignes, whose visionary project for a Centre Pompidou in Massy, Essonne, will continue to inspire future generations."
Contributions to the Centre Pompidou:
Under Lasvignes’ leadership, the Centre Pompidou underwent significant transformations.
- Reopening of the BPI Entrance on the Piazza: In 2021, Lasvignes oversaw the reopening of the entrance to the BPI, which had been closed for renovations. This move brought the library back to the heart of the complex and enhanced its accessibility to the public.
- Renovation of the Beaubourg Building: The first phase of much-needed renovations on the iconic Beaubourg building was initiated during Lasvignes’ presidency. The building will undergo a comprehensive five-year renovation starting in the fall, aiming to preserve its architectural integrity and ensure its continued vitality.
Lasvignes’ legacy at the Centre Pompidou will be remembered for his passion for culture, his commitment to inclusivity, and his unwavering belief in the transformative power of art and dialogue.
