IFI Director Ross Keane will be awarded the prestigious Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres at a ceremony this evening at the Résidence de France in Dublin. The honour, awarded in recognition of his work in the promotion of France-Ireland cultural relations and which recognises Mr Keane as an ami de la France, will be presented by His Excellency Stéphane Crouzat, French Ambassador to Ireland.
In presenting this award, France recognises Ross’s commitment to promoting French cinema in Ireland. Our two countries share a love for quality independent cinema and the collaboration between the Embassy and the IFI embodies this passion. I am delighted to reward Ross Keane with the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres.
His Excellency Stéphane Crouzat, French Ambassador to Ireland
It’s an absolute honour to be awarded the Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres. I have had a deep connection with France for many years, both personally and professionally, which makes this recognition even more significant and special for me. I am privileged in my role as Director and CEO of the Irish Film Institute to celebrate French cinema every year through the IFI French Film Festival, which is now the largest celebration of French culture in the country.
Ross Keane, Director – IFI
The French Embassy recognises the IFI as an essential link in the dissemination of French cultural cinema in Ireland and is proud to partner in the annual IFI French Film Festival, Schools Programme and Night of Ideas initiatives.
The Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Order of Arts and Letters) was established in 1957 and is awarded by the French Ministry of Culture to recognise eminent artists, writers, and scholars for their efforts in promoting the awareness and enrichment of France’s cultural heritage throughout the world.
Ross Keane joined the IFI as Public Affairs and Marketing Director in 2008, before becoming Director in 2012. He previously held senior positions at Dublin Theatre Festival and The Corn Exchange Theatre Company.