Celebrating the Legacy of Marie-Claude Schoendorf: A Fusion of Contemporary Art and Chess in Lyon

Contemporary Art and Chess: A Legacy in Lyon

Lyon, France – The vibrant intersection of contemporary art and chess is poised for a renaissance in Lyon, following the recent passing of Marie-Claude Schoendorf, a beloved figure in the local arts and chess communities. Schoendorf, who resided in a historic apartment on rue Victor Hugo, was not only the guardian of her family’s artistic legacy but also a cherished aunt to Christophe Leroy, the Director of Lyon Olympique Échecs (LOE).

Marie-Claude’s home was a meeting point for chess luminaries, including former World Champion Anatoly Karpov and several French champions, who gathered to share their passion for the game. Her late husband, Max Schoendorff, was a multifaceted artist known for his painting, engraving, and set design, further enriching the cultural tapestry of Lyon.

In the wake of her passing, a support committee has been established under the banner of the newly formed association “Max and Marie-Claude Schoendorff, it’s urgent!” Spearheaded by Odile Nguyen-Schoendorff, Max’s sister, the committee has quickly attracted over 150 members, including award-winning writers, poets, artists, and professionals from various fields. However, the chess community’s representation remains sparse, with only three chess players among the new members.

A Vision for a Chess Museum

The Lyon Olympique Échecs association, which has been a cornerstone of French chess for nearly 42 years, is rallying support for an ambitious project: the establishment of a Museum of French Chess. Under the leadership of President Christophe Mathieu, the club is actively collecting historical artifacts to celebrate the rich history of chess in France, particularly in Lyon.

Christophe Leroy is calling on the chess community to unite and contribute to this vital initiative. “Now is the time for chess players to take action,” he urges, emphasizing the importance of preserving the legacy of chess in Lyon.

A Surreal Adventure

In a remarkable blend of art and chess, the Schoendorffs were also involved in the creation of a stunning 64m² mirrored chessboard at the Château de la Poupée in Marcy l’Étoile. This installation, inspired by Lewis Carroll’s “Through the Looking-Glass,” offered a surreal experience that captivated both chess enthusiasts and art lovers alike.

As the chess community reflects on the contributions of Marie-Claude and Max Schoendorff, there is a renewed call to action. The time has come to honor their legacy and ensure that the worlds of contemporary art and chess continue to thrive together in Lyon.

For those interested in supporting this initiative, you can join the association here.

As Lyon prepares to embrace this new chapter, the fusion of art and chess promises to inspire future generations, ensuring that the spirit of creativity and competition remains alive in the heart of the city.