The art world mourns the loss of Marie-Claude Beaud, who passed away suddenly on Sunday, December 29. A visionary and trailblazer, Beaud was affectionately known as a “Grande dame des musées” for her innovative contributions to contemporary art and museum curation. She served as the director of the Nouveau Musée National de Monaco (NMNM) from 2009 to 2021, leaving an indelible mark on the institution and the broader cultural landscape.

Marie-Claude Beaud’s storied career spanned decades and continents, where she consistently broke boundaries by integrating diverse artistic disciplines into museum spaces. Her work fostered groundbreaking dialogues and connections between artists, audiences, and the institutions she guided. With a deep commitment to accessibility, Beaud made it her mission to diversify museum audiences, ensuring that art was a shared experience for all.

Her legacy can be seen in the many institutions she shaped, including the museums of Grenoble and Toulon, the Fondation Cartier pour l’Art Contemporain in Jouy-en-Josas and Paris, the American Center in Paris, the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, the Mudam in Luxembourg, and finally, the NMNM. At each step, she brought passion, creativity, and a unique vision, earning the respect and admiration of artists, curators, and colleagues worldwide.

Beyond her leadership roles, Beaud also served as Vice-President of the Artistic Council and a board member of the Fondation Prince Pierre de Monaco from 2005 onward. In this capacity, she played a pivotal role in the Fondation’s International Contemporary Art Prize (P.I.A.C.), collaborating with renowned artistic directors to recognise emerging and established talents. Her influence extended to her very last days, as she actively contributed to preparations for the 2025 laureate selection process.

Marie-Claude Beaud will be remembered as a strong, determined, and generous individual who dedicated her life to art and its transformative power. Her tireless work, immense expertise, and enduring spirit touched the lives of countless individuals across the globe.

The NMNM, the Fondation Prince Pierre, and the entire art community extend their heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, and all those fortunate enough to have worked alongside her. Her life’s work has truly been accomplished, leaving behind a rich legacy.

Image courtesy of the Direction de la communication du Gouvernement Princier/Michaël Alesi