Municipal elections in Besançon: Éric Delabrousse unveils his cultural program

Candidate Horizon(s) in the municipal election of Besançon, Éric Delabrousse, presented in a press release on February 18, his measures dedicated to culture, which he intends to place at the heart of his project for the city.

In a press release, he affirms his intention to “make culture a cornerstone of the municipal project: accessible to all, demanding in its programming, ambitious in its facilities, and supported by recognized expertise.” The candidate specifies: “Our goal is clear: to strengthen the radiance of Besançon, support local creation, and make culture a true driver of cohesion and attractiveness.”

An artist on the list

The candidate’s team includes Kim Nezzar, a local artist. “With Kim Nezzar on the team, we choose to combine artistic expertise, knowledge of cultural networks, and field experience in municipal action,” according to Éric Delabrousse. He adds, “This presence guarantees direct dialogue with cultural actors, a fine understanding of contemporary issues, and the ability to design ambitious and credible projects.” The candidate emphasizes, “Culture will not be an adjustment variable: it will be designed, structured, and carried by those who live it daily.”

Cultural diffusion and attractiveness

The program emphasizes organizing events to “offer high-level cultural events to residents, reinforcing local pride.” The candidate adds, “Welcoming artists and large-scale shows also attracts visitors, generates economic benefits, and increases regional influence.”

A “regular programming throughout the year” is intended to anchor the city’s cultural attractiveness. Among the proposed facilities are the creation of a modern auditorium, the establishment of a modular Arena-type room, and the development of festive weekends.

Culture for all and across the city

The press release defends a broad approach to cultural practices: “academic or popular culture, amateur practices, or professional expressions: at all levels, art unites us.” The candidate states, “A city can choose to support this cultural permanence, encourage curiosity, and foster encounters. This is the choice we make.”

Several projects are announced, including a Festival of Harmonies, the revival of afternoon dances at the Kursaal, and the organization of an outdoor fashion event.

The Rodia wasteland transformed into a laboratory

Among the detailed proposals is the transformation of the artistic wasteland of Rodia into “a true open artistic nursery for all disciplines.” The space would host visual artists, writers, dancers, actors, and musicians in a shared space with workshops, studios, and rehearsal stages.

An independent association would manage it. Monthly open days would allow the public to discover ongoing projects.

An auditorium in the Saint-Jacques project

The candidate points out that “Besançon is the city of one of the oldest and most prestigious music festivals.” He considers that the creation of a modern auditorium integrated into the Saint-Jacques project is “a priority to maintain the excellence of this event while allowing the hosting of acoustic concerts or conferences of all kinds throughout the year.”

Revive the Biennial of Visual Arts

Another announced measure is the revival of the Biennial of Visual Arts, described as “a major event capable of bringing together over 200 artists and 2,000 artworks.” Sculpture, photography, painting, and installations would be honored to give the event a regional and national dimension.

“Besançon Fashion” and fashion valorization

The program also plans to organize, twice a year, a fashion event called “Besançon Fashion,” on Place du 8-Septembre. This fashion show would bring together young creators, local couturiers, and schools with the ambition of promoting emerging talents and training sectors.

A label for cultural innovation

Finally, the candidate proposes the creation of a label “Besançon Art & Innovation,” to reward the most innovative cultural projects of the territory each year. According to the press release, this initiative aims to encourage artistic experimentation and attract external projects.