Since her appointment in July 2024, Rachida Dati has wanted to change the paradigm in cultural affairs. Regularly criticizing the elitism of French culture, the candidate for mayor of Paris has sought to highlight popular culture more. Her visit to Ain on Monday, February 2nd, was part of this process.
A label for rural museums
Accompanied by Michel Fournier, Minister Delegated for Rural Affairs, Rachida Dati successively visited the contemporary art biennial in Revonnas, the site of Grande Vapeur in Oyonnax, and the Domaine des Saveurs in Saint-Cyr-sur-Menthon. This allowed her to unveil her Culture and Ruralism plan, which includes heritage protection, live entertainment, “Village en fête” events, festivals, art libraries, and even artist residencies.
Significant announcements were also made regarding the Grande Vapeur Museum. The renovation project, planned for 25 years, is still looking for an architect. However, the increase in budget, from 2.2 million to 3 million euros, announced by Rachida Dati last Monday, is a significant milestone for the project’s realization.
Finally, the minister took advantage of this rural visit to announce a new tool to promote culture in rural areas: the creation of a “Rural Museum” label. This will distinguish museums open to the public in municipalities with less than 3,500 inhabitants.
