French Language Debate: 'Commissarier' vs 'Curater' in Art Exhibitions
Emmanuel Fessy, in a piece for Le Journal des Arts, explores the changing terminology for exhibition curators in France, particularly the emergence of 'curateur' and 'curater' as substitutes for 'commissaire' and 'commissarier.' The article, released on September 3, 2026, points out that 'curateur' appeared in the late 1980s, which traditionalists view as a nod to English. Supporters emphasize its Latin origin ('curare', meaning to care for) and dismiss 'commissaire' due to its authoritarian implications. Fessy notes the simultaneous use of both terms, referencing the Pernod Ricard foundation’s exhibition 'Over the top, undercover' in Paris (September 8–October 31), where 'commissaire invitée' was used for Salomé Burstein alongside the new term 'commissariée.' He reflects on inclusive language and the Académie française's caution from nine years prior, suggesting that both trends will persist, shaped by francophones beyond France.
Key facts
- Article by Emmanuel Fessy in Le Journal des Arts, published September 3, 2026.
- Debate over terms 'curateur/curater' vs 'commissaire/commissarier' for exhibition curators.
- 'Curateur' appeared in late 1980s, seen as more open to foreign practices.
- Purists view 'curateur' as a sign of English (globish) hegemony.
- Proponents cite Latin 'curare' (to care for) and reject 'commissaire' as too authoritarian.
- Dictionary notes 'curateur' also means legal guardian for incapacitated persons.
- Pernod Ricard foundation uses 'commissaire invitée' for Salomé Burstein's exhibition 'Over the top, undercover' in Paris (08/09-31/10).
- The foundation also uses the neologism 'commissariée' in its text.
- 'Commissariée' is in the Grand dictionnaire terminologique of the Office québécois de la langue française.
- Article mentions inclusive language's readability issues and Académie française's 'mortal peril' comment.
- More than half of francophones now live outside France, influencing language evolution.
Entities
Artists
- Salomé Burstein
Institutions
- Le Journal des Arts
- Pernod Ricard
- Académie française
- Office québécois de la langue française
- Larousse
Locations
- Paris
- France
- Canada