Giovana Jaspersen García, the general director of the Franz Mayer Museum, was recently honored with the title of ‘Knight’ (Chevalier) in the Order of Arts and Letters by the French Ministry of Culture. In this interview, she shares the significance of this prestigious distinction and its connection to her career and leadership at the museum.
The Esteemed Recognition
During a formal ceremony, French Ambassador to Mexico Delphine Borione bestowed the insignia and certificate upon Giovana Jaspersen. The certificate read:
“French Republic. The Minister of Culture, by decree, designates ‘Madame Giovana Jaspersen García Chevalier de l’ordre des arts et des lettres’ (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters).
Signed, Rachida Dati.”
Notable Figures Receiving the Same Honor
Giovana Jaspersen joins an esteemed group of individuals who have received the Order of Arts and Letters, including:
- Jorge Luis Borges (1962)
- Ernesto Sabato (1964)
- Atahualpa Yupanqui (1986)
- Mercedes Sosa (1989)
- Bob Dylan (1990)
- Mario Vargas Llosa (1993)
- Arturo Pérez-Reverte (1998)
- David Bowie (1999)
- Meryl Streep (2003)
- Daft Punk (2010)
- Shakira (2012)
Giovana Jaspersen: A Brief Background
Born and raised in Mexico City, Giovana Jaspersen García has dedicated her career to the arts and cultural management. She earned a degree in International Relations from El Colegio de México and later pursued a Master’s in Cultural Management from the Université Paris I Panthéon-Sorbonne. Her passion for art and commitment to fostering cultural exchange led her to various leadership roles in Mexico’s cultural institutions.
In 2015, Jaspersen García became the general director of the Franz Mayer Museum, one of Mexico’s most important private cultural institutions. Under her leadership, the museum has expanded its exhibitions and programs, attracting both local and international audiences. Her dedication to promoting cultural dialogue and collaboration has made her a respected figure in Mexico’s arts community.
The Impact of the Knight Distinction
Receiving the Order of Arts and Letters as a ‘Knight’ is a significant recognition for Giovana Jaspersen. This distinction not only highlights her personal achievements but also underscores the importance of cultural exchange between Mexico and France. Her work at the Franz Mayer Museum has played a crucial role in strengthening this relationship, as she has curated exhibitions featuring both Mexican and French artists.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the Order of Arts and Letters? The Order of Arts and Letters (Ordre des Arts et des Lettres) is a French decoration awarded to artists, writers, and other contributors to the arts. It was established in 1957 by French Minister of Culture André Malraux.
- Who are some notable figures who have received this award? Many prominent artists, writers, and cultural figures have been honored with the Order of Arts and Letters, including Jorge Luis Borges, Ernesto Sabato, Bob Dylan, Meryl Streep, and Shakira.
- What does it mean for Giovana Jaspersen to be a ‘Knight’? As a ‘Knight’ (Chevalier) of the Order of Arts and Letters, Giovana Jaspersen is recognized for her significant contributions to the arts and cultural management. This distinction highlights her impact on fostering cultural exchange between Mexico and France.
