Paris (bpb). A great patron of the arts hasbecome a Mayor in Paris: Denise Egret-Erhard. The 62-year oldbusiness woman (import-export) belongs to the same political party asthe French President Jacques Chirac. The two friends from theirpolitical party have a common interest on the preservation andsupport of the great Christian, West European culturaltraditon.
Denise Egret-Erhard is engaged for Europeanunification. "We want a Europe in peace and freedom. The culture inall spheres is an important communication medium", said thepolitician in an interview with "Prometheus". The United Statescontinue to remain the most important ally of the West Europeans."But we must not rely only on this traditional friendship. Almost 60years after the end of World War II, all over new generations havegrown up. And they have not only the opportunity, but also the dutyto preserve democracy in all areas."
The Lady-Mayor is now the boss of the 17.arrondissement of Paris. This city quarter borders the famous ChampsElysee, which is bejeweled with the Arc de Triomphe de l'Etoile.Denise Erhard is married to the art historian Dominique Egret. He isan expert on sculptures of Aristide Maillol, Paul Belmondo, ArnoBreker, Charles Despiau, Henry Moore, Pablo Picasso, Jean Fautrierand Salvador Dali. The politician is active in the European ArtFoundation Berlin-Paris-New York as an honorary officer for specialprojects. She is engaged also for the same goals as the Museum ofEuropean Art.
(30.1.2002)