École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de Lyon

Established in 1756, the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de Lyon wasn’t always the grand institution you see today. It began as a humble free drawing school, a dream of Abbé Lacroix-Laval and a group of art enthusiasts. Imagine Lyon in the 18th century, a hub of silk weaving and artistic fervor. The school, initially supported by the city’s consulate, aimed to nurture talented designers for the flourishing silk industry. The École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de Lyon quickly evolved. In 1780, it received royal recognition, becoming the École Royale Académique de Dessin et Géométrie. This marked its rise as one of the first prominent art schools outside of Paris. The French Revolution brought a temporary halt to the school’s activities in 1793. However, its importance was recognized, and it was revived in 1795 with a focus on floral design, essential for the recovering silk industry. This era saw the school affectionately nicknamed “école de dessin de la fleur.” The École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de Lyon’s journey took another turn in 1807. It transformed into the “école impériale des Beaux-arts de Lyon,” moving to the Palais Saint-Pierre alongside the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Notable figures like Joseph Chinard and Pierre Revoil graced its halls as professors. The school’s mission expanded beyond its initial focus on design for the silk industry. It embraced the Romantic ideals of art, aiming to shape the nation’s artistic taste. The École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de Lyon continued to flourish. In 1848, it became the “École nationale des beaux-arts de Lyon.” It consistently excelled in national art competitions, solidifying its reputation. The school eventually came under the Ministry of Culture in 1959. In 2007, the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de Lyon found its current home within the historic Subsistances, a former convent turned military storehouse. This move marked a new chapter, providing the school with modern facilities and ample space for artistic exploration and research. Today, the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts de Lyon stands as a testament to its rich history. It continues to foster creativity, offering programs in art and design, and nurturing the next generation of artists and designers.