Museum's Musée d'Orsay president, Sylvain Amic, succumbed at the age of 58

Sylvain Amic, a renowned figure in the French art world, passed away on August 31, 2025, at the age of 58. The news was shared on social media by Rachida Dati, the Minister of Culture, who paid tribute to Amic's "open and creative spirit."

Amic, born in Dakar in 1967, began his career as a schoolteacher before joining the National Institute of Heritage. He later became the president of the Musée d'Orsay and Musée de l'Orangerie, succeeding Christophe Leribault in this role.

In 2018, Amic was tasked, alongside heritage conservator Olivia Voisin, by then-Minister of Culture Françoise Nyssen, to develop a project for the circulation of artworks in regions. This initiative aimed to ensure that everyone could access art, from Soulages to Manet, as President Emmanuel Macron stated in his tribute to Amic.

Amic served as the director of the Réunion des Musées Métropolitains of Rouen Normandy until the summer of 2022. During his tenure, he made significant strides in promoting art and cultural activities in the region. His work was highly regarded, and his passing has left a void in the French art community.

Christophe Leribault took the helm of the Château de Versailles following a decision by Rachida Dati and Emmanuel Macron, after Amic's departure from the Musée d'Orsay and Musée de l'Orangerie. Amic's predecessor as head of the Château de Versailles was Catherine Pégard.

In 2022, Amic joined the cabinet of Rima Abdul Malak as an advisor in charge of museums, crafts, design, and fashion. His contributions in these areas were yet to be fully realised, but his influence was already felt.

No further details about the cause of Sylvain Amic's death were provided. His passing has sparked an outpouring of condolences and tributes from the art world, acknowledging his significant contributions to the world of art and culture in France.