Regardless of the ups and downs of relations between Algeria and France, attendance at the French Institute of Algiers (IFA) does not decrease. For several years, a loyal audience has come there to take French classes, attend exhibitions, watch films, attend a concert or participate in a debate. Since the start of the school year in September, the IFA has been renewed. The old military barracks, built at the beginning of the 20th century.my century, saw its decoration redesigned and modernized.
Declared objective: to make the IFA a place of intercultural exchanges between Algeria and France. A bold bet, at a time when relations between both countries are once again frozen, in a context of rapprochement between Paris and Rabat, neighbor and brother enemy of Algiers. A sign, also, of the persistence of a French cultural policy in the country, while most other bridges are cut.
Although the work, started in September 2023, is not completely finished – it will be at the end of the year – the IFA has already opened its doors to the public. An exhibition by artist Mehdi Hachid, titled “Nexus, reflection on the obsolescence of our systems”, is currently presented in the new exhibition hall and will remain accessible until December 2, before giving way to a new artist.
This rehabilitation of the building, while ensuring the preservation of its historic architecture, was carried out by MMA, the studio of architects Abderrahmane Mahgoun and Achour Mihoubi. The main entrance, previously closed by a large metal door, has been replaced by a large glass cube 8 meters high. “This transparency creates visual continuity between the street and the interior patio, thus inviting passersby to enter”explains Mihoubi, who sees in this transformation a symbolic opening of culture to public space.
Open to the largest possible public
The auditorium benefited from a rigorous acoustic study, with the integration of wood, felt membranes and carpet to offer optimal sound quality to spectators. The exhibition hall can be arranged in a versatile way, with removable wooden panels on the windows, allowing natural light to be blocked for temporary exhibitions or used for receptions. Finally, accessibility has been taken into account, which has been lacking in the place for a long time, with the incorporation of ramps and elevators to guarantee easy access for people with reduced mobility, thus contributing to the democratization of access to culture.
For those responsible for the IFA, this transformation reflects their desire to be open to the widest possible audience. They want the institute to be “accessible to all, with a space that invites passersby to discover the programming,” as well as“a cultural intersection and a space for dialogue where Algerian and French cultures are expressed”. Cycles of conferences and public workshops are also planned. “Collaborating with Algerian and French artists and intellectuals will enrich the perspectives offered to the public”they specify.
Among the other initiatives announced, artistic residencies will allow creators to collaborate on innovative projects with local artists. Educational programs are also planned, paying special attention to young people. “The IFA wants to invest in the cultural training of new generations”those responsible explain. Upon reservation, access to a CreaLab, a creation space, will be available, allowing users to develop their own projects.
Modernization is not limited to Algiers. Several IFA branches across the country, including the one in Annaba (600 km east of the capital), have been renovated or opened new spaces, such as recording studios.
