Audrey Azoulay, Minister of Culture and Communication, today presented Jean-Marc Ibos & Myrto Vitart with the 2016 National Grand Prix of Architecture. Created in 1975, this award, which annually rewards an architect or an architectural agency for his entire career and his work, represents the highest national distinction in this field.
Jean-Marc Ibos and Myrto Vitart propose an architecture placed under the sign of accuracy, measurement and beauty. Paying scrupulous attention to the constraints of the site and the economy of the project, the powerful aesthetics of their architecture is the result of geometric precision and a great technical mastery that concerns itself with the entire construction chain, from its conception to its realization.
They carried out the extension of the Fine Arts Museum of Lille in 1997, creating a symbiosis between the two buildings. This work can be found in Strasbourg with the André Malraux Media Library or in the Cochin Hospital in Paris with La maison des adolescents, maison de Solenn.
Like each of their predecessors, Jean-Marc Ibos & Myrto Vitart received from the minister the diploma created by artist Daniel Buren. The Grand Prix is endowed with 10,000 euros. In addition, the Cité de l'architecture et du patrimoine will dedicate an exhibition and a book to their work. Finally, Jean-Marc Ibos & Myrto Vitart will have the opportunity to exchange with students in the framework of «master classes» organized in the National Graduate Schools of Architecture.
This choice comes after a broad consultation with architecture stakeholders. The jury, composed of professionals and institutional members, met on October 10 to study the files of five finalist architects and agencies before choosing the winner of the Grand Prix.
The Minister of Culture and Communication also wishes to commend the work of the other finalist architects: Patrick Bouchain, Anne Démians, Renée Gailhoustet and Marc Mimram.