Périgueux: the new dynamic of the Friends of Maap

Very discreet in recent years, the association has acquired a new management with a goal: to support the renewal of the museum.

The Friends of the Museum of Art and Archaeology of Périgueux (MAAP) association hasn't been giving much news in recent years. It should be noted that its presidency was held by Élisabeth Dartencet, head of a right-wing list in the 2020 municipal elections, won by a left-wing team. Not enough to smooth out relations between the parties.

The cards were reshuffled this spring when Florent Piednoir took over as president. At the head of the Galerie Ars Pictura , this specialist in 17th and 18th century painting is supported by Paul d'Anselme as treasurer and Martine Noverraz as secretary.

Little known to the general public, the association nevertheless has 130 members. Its vocation is to provide patronage, by purchasing or restoring works, but also to collaborate in the organization of exhibitions and conferences. Florent Piednoir also wishes to bring it closer to other organizations "with which we have a similar audience": the Historical and Archaeological Society of Périgord ( Shap ) and Vieilles maisons françaises ( VMF ).

“This museum has enormous potential to attract the city. It could even become a leading tourist attraction for the region.”

The mandate of the new team corresponds above all to an upheaval: the renovation of the Maap which will be brought about by the relocation of its reserves, announced for 2029. A major challenge for the new president who considers that "this museum has enormous potential to attract the city. It could even become a leader in departmental tourism."

He is therefore following the subject very closely, regretting not sitting on the Steering Committee, which brings together academics specializing in various disciplines. "We are not asking for voting rights, but to be able to participate, using our unique and long-standing knowledge. With sixteen years of existence, we have real experience on the subject."

But with less than a year to go before the municipal elections, the continuation of this vast project will undoubtedly be a topic of debate. This is something the young president is somewhat wary of. "If the current team stays in place, they will have to continue the work they've started. And if it's a different team, they must be aware of what's at stake. We have a cultural and heritage duty with these works, some of which are crumbling to dust."