Jean Maheu on Centre Pompidou's Interdisciplinary Mission

In an interview with Catherine Millet for Artpress, Jean Maheu discusses the founding vision of the Centre Georges Pompidou as an interdisciplinary institution. He emphasizes that the center was designed to break down barriers between artistic disciplines, integrating visual arts, music, cinema, literature, and design under one roof. Maheu explains that this approach was a deliberate response to the fragmentation of cultural fields in the 20th century, aiming to foster dialogue and cross-pollination among creators and audiences. He highlights the role of the Bibliothèque publique d'information (BPI) and the Musée National d'Art Moderne as key components, alongside spaces for performance and temporary exhibitions. Maheu also reflects on the challenges of maintaining this interdisciplinary ethos amid institutional and political pressures. The interview, published in November 1985, provides insight into the early ambitions of the Pompidou Center and its lasting impact on cultural policy.