Photography Highlights From Les Rencontres d’Arles 2024

As a passionate gamer and photography enthusiast, I can’t help but be captivated by the allure of Les Rencontres d’Arles, an annual summer event that transforms this ancient city in the south of France into a global hub for photographic art. Having attended several editions of this esteemed festival, I can attest to its unique ability to bring together renowned photographers, emerging talents, and captivating themes that resonate with audiences from all walks of life.


During the summer months, Arles in southern France becomes a hub for photography enthusiasts with Les Rencontres d’Arles taking place. This significant event transforms the historic city, attracting renowned photographers and providing opportunities for new talents. It also brings attention to the works of past photographers whose creations merit rediscovery. The festival’s expansive reach extends beyond galleries, encompassing churches, ancient crypts, and even the local supermarket at Arles.

From now until September 29, this year’s theme, “beneath the surface,” delves into quakes, upheaval, ghosts, residues, and hidden meanings. Sophie Calle’s exhibition, “Neither Give Nor Throw Away,” aligns perfectly with this theme. In her series “The Blind,” Calle allows the work to be ruined by mold and exhibits it in a damp, underground location. Her intention is for the beauty of the decaying art to seep into the city’s foundations. Meanwhile, at Espace Van Gogh, Mary Ellen Mark’s exhibition, “Encounters,” explores this theme further. Featuring images from five of her most cherished series, this display showcases empathetic portraits of marginalized and vulnerable individuals. Additionally, contact sheets, correspondence, and archival materials are included to provide a more profound appreciation for Mark’s legacy.

In addition, at Salle Henri-Comte, Ishiuchi Miyako’s “Belongings” collection delves into the significance of personal items. These range from emotional keepsakes like her mother’s lipstick to chilling mementos belonging to a Hiroshima bomb victim. Through her photographs, Ishiuchi explores the empty spaces left by their owners, mapping their outlines via their possessions. Tshepiso Mazibuko’s “Ho Tshepa Ntsheped Ya Bontshepe” highlights her South African community and the “born free” generation, scrutinizing generational anguish and challenging the concept of being “born free” post-Apartheid. Notable photographers such as Nanténé Traoré and Marilou Poncin also merit recognition. Nanténé captures the intrigue of transitional moments in her work, while Marilou imagines a future where technology alters the landscape of human desires in “Liquid Love Is Full Of Ghosts.”

In Arles, the past and present intermingle, resulting in a vibrant mosaic of photographic art. For further details, visit Les Rencontres d’Arles’ website.

Les Rencontres d’Arles
34 Rue du Dr Fanton
Arles 13200
France

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2024-07-22 19:26