Le Code d’Orsay
13 February - 10 March 2024
In February 2024, for the first time in its history, the Musée d’Orsay in Paris showcased original artworks featuring blockchain technology. Through Valérie’s position as Head of Art for the Tezos blockchain ecosystem, she worked closely with the Musée d’Orsay’s business development department in support of the museum’s first ever NFT installation.
Collectively entitled, ‘Le Code d’Orsay’ the exhibition included digital work, a sculpture and a musical activation by Sebastien Devaud, aka Agoria. This includes, most notably, a bespoke sculpture entitled “Sigma Lumina,” which was created by Devaud in collaboration with the artist Johan Lescure. The artwork, when hit by the perfect alignment of light from above, periodically cast a shadow in the form of a QR code. The code, when scanned, prompted audiences to blow into their phones, to reveal one of a selection of masterworks from the Musées’ collection, including artworks by Caillebotte, Degas and Renoir among others. Further, the resulting interactive visuals were then possible for visitors to mint as NFTs, creating a tapestry of collectors who experienced this pioneering installation. Further to the creative collaboration of the audience, these NFTs permit Musée’s business development team to engage with these collectors for years to come.
The activation was supplemented by a DJ performance during the NFT Paris Conference which welcomed an entirely new audience to the Musée. Agoria also sold editions of work inspired by the visitors’ mints throughout the exhibition.

Preview of 'Le Code d'Orsay', courtesy Le Musée d'Orsay

Johan Lescure and Agoria on the roof of the Musée d'Orsay. Photo: Julien Benhamou

DJ Set: Photo: Le Musée d'Orsay

The sculpture “Sigma Lumina,” by Agoria and Johan Lescure. Photo: Cédric Corroy

Installation View of "Sigma Lumina", courtesy Agoria