Transfer the arts professions

A title of excellence and its transmission program

Created in 1994, the title of Master of Art is awarded for life to professionals of craft with a remarkable and rare know-how, who engage for three years in a process of transmission to a student. It is a unique title in Europe.

The title of art master is submitted by the Minister for Culture. It is backed by a transmission system set up by the Institut national des métiers d'art (INMA).

The creation of the official title of Master of Art was inspired by Unesco’s "Living Human Treasures" programme, which itself originated from Japan’s "Living National Treasures". The principle of this programme is based on the value of the traditions and expressions concerned as a witness of human creative genius, as well as their roots in cultural and social traditions, their representativeness for a given community and the risk of seeing them disappear.

Art master, a title of the Ministry of Culture

Since the creation of the title of art master in 1994, the Ministry has distinguished more than 149 professionals in 100 different specialties that have passed to as many students.

A Master of Art is a professional of excellence who masters exceptional techniques and know-how. He is recognized by his peers for his experience, expertise and teaching skills. Its mission is to transmit its know-how to the new generation. He must be able to transmit his knowledge and techniques to a student so that he perpetuates them.

The ministry supports the professional association of the Ateliers des maîtres d'art et de leurs élèves, which brings together most of the supporters of the ministerial title.

The Ministry of Culture is the ministry in charge of the Art Master and Students ».