The International Glass and Visual Arts Research Centre (Cirva) places the creative act at the heart of its mission. The art centre has occupied a unique place within the international scene since 1983 and invites artists and designers to work with a specific material—glass—in an atmosphere of complete freedom. At the Cirva’s studio, they are met by a team of experienced glassmakers, and a dialogue begins. This exchange unfolds over the course of time, through repeated visits. It is instrumental in allowing the artists to undertake bold experiments during which unlimited avenues of thought encounter a material with a complex and unpredictable reputation.

Cirva is a non-profit association, recognized for general interest, which has been supported since its creation by the ministère de la Culture / Direction régionale des affaires culturelles de Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, the City of Marseille, the Conseil régional Sud Paca and the Conseil départemental des Bouches-du-Rhône.