Lithuanian museum chief awarded France's Legion of Honour

Arūnas Gelūnas, director general of the Lithuanian National Museum of Art, has received the Knight’s Cross of France’s National Order of the Legion of Honour. The award was conferred in recognition of his contributions to cultural cooperation between Lithuania and France. The ceremony took place at the National Gallery of Art in Vilnius, where French Ambassador to Lithuania Lucie Stepanyan presented the decoration. The award marks a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between Lithuania and France, highlighting their shared commitment to cultural exchange. Gelūnas expressed that the honor was not solely personal but represented the collective efforts of the museum staff, the enduring cultural ties between the two nations, and the belief that art serves as a universal medium for diplomatic engagement. “I accept this award as an acknowledgment of the work of our entire Lithuanian National Museum of Art community, the cultural partnership between Lithuania and France, and the belief that art is a universal language of diplomacy,” Gelūnas stated during the ceremony. He emphasized the shared values that bind the two countries, such as respect for human dignity, freedom, and cultural heritage. The award comes amid ongoing cultural initiatives between the two nations. During the Season of Lithuania in France, the National Gallery of Art organized four exhibitions in collaboration with French institutions, positioning itself as a key participant in the cultural program. These exhibitions showcased the deep artistic connections between the two countries and reinforced their mutual appreciation for each other’s cultural traditions. The museum has consistently promoted French art in Lithuania and maintains close partnerships with leading French cultural institutions, including the Centre Pompidou. Looking ahead, the museum is set to collaborate with the Musée du quai Branly, Jacques Chirac on new joint exhibitions and projects. Such collaborations, according to Gelūnas, demonstrate how culture can serve as a powerful tool for building trust, fostering long-term friendships, and shaping a common vision for the future. Since taking leadership of the Lithuanian National Museum of Art in 2019, Gelūnas has spearheaded numerous international cultural initiatives. His work has earned him accolades beyond France, including Japan’s Order of the Rising Sun, Lithuania’s Order for Merits to Lithuania, and Ukraine’s Order of Merit. These awards reflect his dedication to promoting cross-cultural dialogue through the arts. The Legion of Honour, established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, is France’s highest state decoration. It is awarded to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the nation in fields such as military service, public life, and the arts. The awarding of the Knight’s Cross signifies recognition of exceptional merit and service, underscoring the significance of Gelūnas' role in strengthening Franco-Lithuanian cultural ties.