Pierre et Adeline Dumon

A deep artistic connection

By Caroline Guiol

Association, foundation, museum… behind Regards de Provence is a family that shares a passion for the local, Provençal and Mediterranean art scene. So many places have been brought back to life: Château Borély, the Palais des Arts and, in 2013, Fernand Pouillon’s former maritime sanitary station opposite the Mucem museum, which has been designated one of France’s 20th Century Heritage sites and is now their new home. Two patrons of the arts, Pierre Dumon, founder, and his wife Michèle are the people who made this happen. Monumental mason and corset-maker respectively by trade, the pair have art and philanthropy running through their veins. Following in their footsteps, their daughter Adeline has returned from the United States with a mission to bring the 25-year-old collection right up to date. With her eye for art, she will introduce some of her own personal favourites: “Vincent Bioulès and Georges Rousse have guided our vision and the coherence and balance of our acquisitions”. A thousand works, paintings, drawings, photos and sculptures, from the 19th century to the present day, will be brought together in a programme of truly unique exhibitions and events. “At the age of 85, my father is still a pioneer, with a bold, inquisitive, modern approach to life. He remains the magnificent guardian of the building, keen to be involved in sharing the creativity of the artists who surround us each day. He’s proud of the path we’ve trodden together. My task will be to continue what he has brought to the people of Marseille and other visitors and to set a shining example, filling our galleries all year round with works that are the envy of all.”

www.museeregardsdeprovence.com.