Edgar Degas Foundation

To Preserve the Legacy of Edgar Degas

Founded in 1995, the non-profit Edgar Degas Foundation is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the French Impressionist Master, Edgar Degas, and serving as a cultural resource center for the public. The Foundation adopted two goals from its onset to achieve this mission.

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The First Goal

The first goal was the restoration of the Musson-Degas Home located at 2306 Esplanade Avenue. The artist lived in this home from October 1872 to March 1873 while visiting his maternal relatives, the Musson Family. Purchased in 1993, Phase I of the restoration was completed on March 1, 1997, with private funds. The restoration has received numerous awards including: Excellence in Restoration from the Louisiana Preservation Alliance, An Affiliate of the National Trust for Historic Preservation; Purple Rating by the New Orleans Historic Landmarks Commission; one of only six in New Orleans Golden Hammer Awards for Historic Preservation, awarded by the City of New Orleans. Degas House is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is a member of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Phase II of the restoration began in December of 1998. The work is ongoing and will include the replacement of the original wrought iron fence as shown in the architectural drawings from 1863, as well as work on the grounds and adjacent structures of the original Estate.

The Second Goal

The second goal adopted by the Foundation is the establishment of a cultural resource center to provide service to the community and educate the public about Degas in New Orleans. The Foundation provides books, videos, and research material to students, scholars, writers, historians and members of the public interested in learning more about the French Impressionist Master.

Degas House is available to the public for tours, meetings, weddings and receptions, special events and overnight stays. The Foundation particularly welcomes artists, scholars and historians to Degas House. We offer assistance in research and facilities for exhibitions of work.

The Foundation continues to work with local schools and organizations fostering the artistic talents of our students and encouraging a greater understanding of the works of Edgar Degas by hosting programs for interns, school tour groups and other activities.

The Edgar Degas Foundation is deeply grateful for the support of all who share our belief that the preservation of art is our cultural imperative.

We invite your inquiries regarding membership in the Edgar Degas Foundation. Membership levels include categories for students, individuals, families, business, patrons and corporations. Every member receives a copy of the video, Degas in New Orleans: A Creole Sojourn, and a tour of the House. Depending on the level of membership, the Foundation also offers discounts on accommodations and event space.

The Edgar Degas Foundation's educational mission is to restore the Home and preserve the legacy of Edgar Degas for New Orleans and the World.

The Edgar Degas Foundation is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization.

All proceeds are tax deductible including tours, donations, memberships, purchases from the gift shop and acquisitions from the House.