Mathieu Lehanneur: “There Was a Media Surge the Day After the Opening Ceremony”

Exhibited in New York’s MoMA permanent collections since his graduation project in 2001, Lehanneur quickly established himself in the world of contemporary art. His multidisciplinary and innovative approach attracted collaborations with luxury brands like Cartier, Dior, Veuve Clicquot, and Audemars Piguet. In 2018, he launched his eponymous brand, and five years later, he opened “Factory” on the outskirts of Paris, a space combining his headquarters, workshops, and exhibition area.

In 2023, Lehanneur was commissioned to design three iconic objects for the Paris 2024 Games: the torch and the Olympic and Paralympic cauldrons. This globally resonant project not only showcased his work to billions of spectators but also marked a career-defining moment. Following the historic event and his recognition as “Designer of the Year 2024” by Maison&Objet, Lehanneur met with us at the Olympic Museum to discuss this extraordinary experience.

Mathieu Lehanneur, you designed three emblematic items for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games seen by billions around the world. How did you experience the enthusiasm around this project?

As intensely as possible. For years, I’ve aimed to evoke emotions through objects and furniture that resonate deeply with my audience. The Olympic project went far beyond my expectations, with the torch of course, but even more so with the Olympic cauldron. Creating something viewed by billions is a rare opportunity in a designer’s life, especially within such a monumental event where the unveiled object gains such significance. I received tens of thousands of messages from people, both in my community and from those discovering my work for the first time, sharing their pride and emotion. The day after the opening ceremony, there was an unprecedented media surge. The Olympics transformed my platform into something global.

Of all your creations for Paris 2024, which are you most proud of?

The Olympic cauldron. Few people recall previous cauldrons, and they’re not typically museum pieces. My aim was for mine to leave a lasting impression throughout the Games. I felt immense joy and excitement when the cauldron was lit. Collaborating with top experts in technique, engineering, and flame development was incredibly fulfilling, and the reveal brought a wave of unimaginable support and love.

How would you define this project in the scope of your career?

It was undoubtedly the most intense. Given the stakes, every element had to be perfectly controlled, ready on time with zero margin for delay. I had to deliver whaterver happened. There was some stress—especially during the flame’s ignition—as there’s always an element of unpredictability. On opening day, we faced challenging weather. Rain wasn’t an issue, but the wind could have prevented the cauldron’s ascent. We could have had to decide not to launch it.