Abu Dhabi, UAE –25 July 2023: Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Arab World’s first universal museum, today announced the appointment of seasoned professional Dr. Guilhem André as its Acting Director for Scientific, Curatorial and Collections Management. Dr. André, who previously served as the museum’s Chief Curator, will now oversee and lead Louvre Abu Dhabi’s curatorial strategy, the development of its narrative and collection, and exhibition programming, alongside managing its curatorial team.
Dr. André, an expert archaeologist and art historian, joined Louvre Abu Dhabi in 2018 as Chief Curator for the Medieval and Asian arts. A key focus for him during this time was the development and curation of the museum’s acclaimed permanent collection, aligning the acquisition process in the museum and setting up policies and procedures. Since 2008, he also played a role in developing the narrative for Louvre Abu Dhabi. In 2012, he started working as the curator for Asian art for the Louvre Abu Dhabi project at Agence France-Muséums and relocated to Abu Dhabi in 2016. During this period, he designed a programme for Asian arts and oversaw the museum's completion from the curatorial side. 

Beginning his career as assistant curator at the Musée national des Arts asiatiques-Guimet, Paris, in 2001, Dr. André actively participated in numerous exhibitions across Europe, Asia, and the Gulf before creating the chair of Far Eastern Art History at the Institut Catholique de Paris. He taught for several years in this capacity, while also leading the programme of Far Eastern Arts at the Ecole du Louvre. From 2001-2008, he also worked at the department of Chinese art, Musée Guimet in Paris, developing and implementing an international multidisciplinary scientific programme on East Asian archaeology, from field research to museum exhibition. As mentioned above, he then went on to establish the scientific and cultural programming of Asian Arts at France Museum. 
At Louvre Abu Dhabi, Dr. André will be supported by a dynamic curatorial team of ten members, consisting of Emirati and international museum professionals. 
Manuel Rabaté, Director, Louvre Abu Dhabi, said: “As the first universal museum in the Arab world, Louvre Abu Dhabi is embarking on a new chapter in the development of its curatorial strategy. We are confident in the leadership of Dr. Guilhem André and his ability to spread the knowledge of the collection and to mobilise our team to deliver exceptional exhibitions, research, and curatorial programmes. I am certain that this will be a step towards achieving our next phase of growth – for Louvre Abu Dhabi in particular, but also for Abu Dhabi and the region in general.”

Marwa Al Menhali, Business Support Director, Louvre Abu Dhabi, said: “Dr. André's invaluable contributions since the foundation of Louvre Abu Dhabi, and his deep-rooted understanding of our institution's vision and unwavering dedication, make him the ideal candidate for this pivotal role. We are confident that Dr. André's leadership, combined with the expertise of our Emirati and international museum professionals, will pave the way for a dynamic and culturally diverse museum experience. Our trust is in his ability to deliver exceptional exhibitions, foster new research, and curate enriching cultural experiences that embody Louvre Abu Dhabi's spirit. Dr. André's mentorship will also be instrumental in shaping the next generation of Emirati museum professionals in the curatorial department.'

Dr. Guilhem André, Acting Director for Scientific, Curatorial and Collections Management, said: “It is an honour and a privilege to be able to oversee and lead the curatorial strategy for this remarkable institution, alongside my incredible team. Together, we are dedicated to bringing the collection, exhibitions and research to new heights, as we strive to foster cultural connections and showcase the depth and breadth of human ingenuity. I am excited for this new chapter, as it offers us the opportunity to provide our visitors with unforgettable experiences that not only ignite their curiosity but also deepen their appreciation for the wonders of art and culture.”