In 1984, on the suggestion of artist and friend César, Alain Dominique Perrin, then president of Cartier International, founded the Fondation Cartier pour l’art contemporain. Designed as a space for artistic creation and experimentation, it aimed to engage with the public and promote contemporary art.

This vision is reflected in the architecture of the Fondation's iconic headquarters on Boulevard Raspail, which opened to the public in 1994. Designed by Jean Nouvel, the iconic glass and steel building became a symbol of Parisian cultural life, creating a continuous dialogue between the exhibitions inside and the bustling life outside.

The evolution of France's first corporate foundation dedicated to promoting and supporting contemporary art is explored in the podcast "Voir venir, Venir voir," available on all listening platforms from September 17, featuring new episodes each week with interviews, curiosities, and unique anecdotes.

But the 40th anniversary brings another significant development. By the end of 2025, Fondation Cartier will open a new headquarters at Place du Palais-Royal, also designed by Domus 2022 Guest editor. The new building, located just steps from the Louvre, marks a significant departure from the previous location. Nouvel will now be working on a Haussmannian building with a rich history, originally constructed during Napoleon III’s urban renewal initiative, first inaugurated in 1855 as Grand Hôtel du Louvre and later converted into Grands Magasins du Louvre and Louvre des Antiquaires.

To celebrate the opening, the foundation is creating an installation to be displayed on the 7-meter-high windows of the future headquarters. The artwork will pay tribute to the artists who have collaborated with Fondation Cartier throughout its history, featuring portraits of around thirty notable figures, including Jean Nouvel, Agnès Varda, Claudia Andujar, Takeshi Kitano, Patti Smith, Sheroanawe Hakihiiwe, Marie Losier, and Ron Mueck.