The École du Louvre, France's prestigious art history institution, is launching its new academic year in Nice, bringing world-class cultural education to the French Riviera. The renowned school, which has been synonymous with cultural prestige since its establishment in the late 19th century, will offer seventeen courses across two different cycles at L'Artistique, located at 27 Boulevard Dubouchage.
This educational partnership between the École du Louvre and the City of Nice dates back to 1991 and represents part of a broader cultural policy aimed at making high-quality arts education accessible to everyone. The school, which operates in symbiosis with French museums and falls under the Ministry of Culture, specializes in training art historians and museum professionals while also welcoming amateur enthusiasts.
Sandra Décimo, head of the auditor services at the school housed in the sublime museum on Rue de Rivoli in Paris, explained the program's accessibility. "These courses are exclusively for free auditors, amateurs. It's for everyone," she stated. No diploma is required to attend the classes, though no certification is awarded upon completion.
The curriculum consists of two distinct programs designed to cater to different interests and commitment levels. The first cycle offers an introduction to general art history, featuring twelve courses spread over three years that begin on Wednesday, September 17. These foundational courses provide a comprehensive overview of artistic movements and historical contexts.
The second cycle presents five specialized courses with themes that change annually. This year's focus is "Braque, Picasso and Cubism," scheduled to begin in March 2026. All classes are held on Wednesdays at 6 PM, making them accessible to working professionals and students alike.
The teaching staff comprises distinguished professionals from various fields within the art world. Instructors include historians, curators, research professors, and heritage professionals, ensuring students receive expert-level instruction from practitioners actively engaged in their respective fields.
Regarding costs, the introduction to general art history course is priced at 100 euros for the full rate and 60 euros for the reduced rate, which applies to those under 26, unemployed individuals, and those receiving social assistance. The specialized thematic cycle costs 75 euros at the full rate and 45 euros at the reduced rate.
While very few spots remain available for in-person classes, the school offers an online alternative for the art history introduction course. The digital format includes 37 sessions priced at 240 euros for the full rate and 145 euros for the reduced rate, providing flexibility for those unable to attend in person. Additional information is available at auditeursecoledulouvre.fr.
