One year ago, I had the immense pleasure of inviting you to the inauguration of the Galerie Catherine Pennec. Many of you were there to cheer me on. Thank you very much.

12 months later: 18 artists have presented their work in the Gallery over the course of 10 exhibitions. Acrylics, oils, pastels, inks, engravings and photographs found their place on the Gallery walls, while volumes in wood, resin, metal, concrete, ceramics and bronze adorned the showcases.

Unforgettable encounters with artists and Gallery visitors. Moments of joy, moments of doubt, disappointment when my choices don't meet their public, pleasant surprises when the response exceeds expectations. Whatever the outcome, I take great pride in presenting the work of all these artists from such singular universes.

In today's dramatic and economically difficult world, I'm very fortunate to be able to present to others a different way of interpreting the world. Art doesn't necessarily invite the "beautiful", but it does offer moments of breath, reflection, emotion and sharing, so precious in these troubled times.

Our Auvergne region is home to a host of top-quality cultural events and many talented artists.

Clermont-Ferrand is well placed to be a European City of Culture, and first-time visitors to Clermont are impressed by its heritage and the diversity of its cultural offerings. We are therefore well placed to promote the work of Auvergne Rhône-Alpes artists beyond our region, and to welcome and introduce those from other regions and countries.

It's in this spirit, and with the same passion, that I'm preparing the following exhibitions, and that I look forward to introducing you to new talents!