What is FIRPCAM?

The International Fund for the
Recognition of Responsible
Art Collecting Practices

Created in 2018 under the auspices of several international cultural organisations, FIRPCAM (Fonds International pour la Reconnaissance des Pratiques de Collection d'Art Responsable) evaluates, certifies, and promotes organisations that establish verifiable ethical frameworks in the art world.

FIRPCAM certification is obtained following a rigorous and independent process, based on four fundamental conditions.


The 4 Conditions for Certification

1

Published Code

A formal code of conduct or charter, publicly accessible, that defines precise ethical standards.

2

Independent Governance

An ethics body independent from management, responsible for interpreting the code and resolving disputes.

ACR: Ethics Committee
3

Periodic Audit

A member evaluation mechanism (audit, peer review) ensuring compliance with stated standards.

4

Continuous Improvement

A documented code revision process involving members and external experts.

Why Did ACR Obtain FIRPCAM?

A natural convergence of requirements.

The ACR was designed from its inception with principles that align with FIRPCAM requirements: a structured Code, an independent Ethics Committee, a rigorous admission process, and regular reviews.

The 3 Key Synergies

  • Rigour → Recognition: the ACR Code goes beyond FIRPCAM minimum requirements.
  • Independence → Credibility: our Ethics Committee operates in total autonomy from the Board.
  • Transparency → Trust: our revision process is open and documented.

Typical Member Journey

1

Research

The collector discovers the ACR and evaluates their alignment with the Code.

2

Application

Formal application submission, documentation, and sponsoring.

3

Admission

Participation in ACR life: events, network, resources.

4

Deepening

Pursuing FIRPCAM certification with ACR support.

5

Certification

FIRPCAM certification: international recognition achieved.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. FIRPCAM certification is an optional recognition that members can pursue with ACR support. ACR membership does not require FIRPCAM certification.

The process typically takes 12 to 18 months, depending on the maturity of the organisation's ethical framework and the quality of documentation provided.

FIRPCAM certifies organisations, not individuals. However, being a member of a FIRPCAM-certified organisation like the ACR confers recognised ethical standing.

The FIRPCAM audit fees are borne by the applicant organisation. For ACR members, a portion of these fees is covered by the Alliance as part of the annual membership.

Yes, certification is renewed every 5 years following a comprehensive reassessment. Annual interim reviews ensure continued compliance.

FIRPCAM certification enhances international credibility, facilitates partnerships with major institutions, improves access to prestigious exhibitions, and demonstrates commitment to ethical best practices.

Aim for excellence.

Join the ACR and benefit from personalised support towards FIRPCAM certification.

Apply for Membership