Cultural Citizenship

More broadly, many Richemont products are pieces of fine art. Fostering and nurturing creativity is an inherent part of the brand tradition for many of our Maisons. A culturally literate society is also one that can appreciate items of quality. Many of our Maisons have developed programmes that support art and artists helping share creative works with wider audiences.

Case Study: Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain

Founded in 1984, the mission of the Cartier Foundation in Paris is to provide a showcase for the work of contemporary artists. The Fondation is an active patron, building an eclectic collection of over 1 000 pieces representing the best of art from France and around the world. The Foundation takes a special interest in the work of young artists at the start of their careers. As well as building its own collection, the Cartier Foundation hosts five annual exhibitions, weekly events and its popular ‘Nomadic Nights’ focusing on other art forms, all held in its specially commissioned home in the Boulevard Raspail in the heart of Paris. The Fondation exhibitions often tour the globe.

Case Study: Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award

In 1992, Montblanc established a foundation to support and honour patrons of the arts who have given their time, energy and financial resources in order to encourage cultural life to flourish and to support artists and their projects. An independent jury including internationally acclaimed artists such as Catherine Deneuve, Placido Domingo, Bernardo Bertolucci, Jessye Norman and Fernando Botero have been members in recent years, select the winners whose personal commitment and contribution deserve wider recognition, The award-winning art patrons will receive a special Montblanc fountain pen from the annual "Limited Edition Patron of Art" which will be first presented to the public during the prize-giving ceremony. The Montblanc de la Culture Arts Patronage Award is awarded in Germany, Great Britain, France, Italy, Spain, the USA, Hong Kong, China, Japan and one country from the ASEAN States.