What’s on in Paris this March?

4 March 2016

Enjoy an Outstanding Line-Up of Parisian Exhibitions Mixing Architectural Drawings and Monochrome Photographs

This March, exhibitions in Paris are focused on photography and architecture. Those interested in urbanism may want to attend a fascinating exhibition relating to how Bernard Huet participated in creating what we now know as the French Capital. Combining both modern architecture and heritage, the Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine and its red, high-ceilinged rooms adorned with ancient arches are an incredible setting for the artist’s light, precise drawings.

Visitors can also look forward to an array of photography exhibitions at the Maison Européenne de la Photographie de la Ville de Paris. From Renaud Monfourny’s intimate, black and white portraits of rock stars…to Tony Hage’s renowned action shots of Hollywood and the fashion industry’s most famous icons, these exhibitions will inspire both seasoned photographers and newcomers wanting to learn more.

To enjoy both shows and monuments, we recommend starting at the Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine, in the 16^th arrondissement, then stroll alongside the River Seine and head to the 4^th arrondissement to visit the Maison Européenne de la Photographie. As well as attending leading exhibitions, you’ll also see some of Paris’ most stunning scenery during an exceptional stay in the City of Light.

Bernard Huet at Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine

10^th February – 31^st May

When wandering through the vast rooms of the Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine that overlook the Eiffel Tower and the Trocadéro, you’ll be stunned by the contrast between the building’s ancient, stone interiors and the contemporary architectural drawings presented there. Until May 31^st, the museum is showing the work of one of the most influential French architects of the 20^th century.

Almost unknown to the public, Bernard Huet is the innovative craftsman behind the creation of diverse Parisian venues. Designer of the geometrical Parc de Bercy, he also rearranged the Champs-Elysées and built the Place Stalingrad, as well as its majestic fountain set in the 19^th arrondissement.

With his extreme precision and passion for modern architecture, Bernard Huet drew hundreds of sketches that depicted his urbanist ideas for the City of Light – as well as creations he succeeded in bringing to life. Guests can expect soft-hued, neat artworks showing the designer’s discipline and talent during an informative expo in the chicest neighbourhood of the French capital.

Exhibitions at the Maison de la Photographie de la Ville de Paris

3^rd February – 27^th March

As the American photographer Alfred Stieglitz once said, “Photography is a reality so subtle that it becomes more real than reality”. Through two powerful exhibitions, the Maison Européenne de la Photographie aims to show fashion icons and artists’ reality through authentic pictures.

When entering this perfectly square, contemporary building situated inside the Hotel de Ville, Renaud Monfourny’s work will immediately catch the eye. Famous for his monochrome portraits and tight bonds with rock stars, he has succeeded in taking photographs of his subjects in their most intimate moments. In the exhibition “Sui Generis”, which translates from Latin to ‘one of its kind’, Patti Smith is looking straight into the camera lens while buttoning her cuff. Nirvana are crossing the streets of Seattle; Kurt Cobain leading the way with his wild, blond hair, a plaid shirt on his back and a distant gaze subtly betraying his melancholia. While Neil Young is proudly posing by his Mustang car, a few yards away from his ranch in Redwood Forest, northern California.

These stunning shots unveil the fragility and moments of doubt encountered by some of the 20^th century’s most famous artists. The same can also be said of Tony Hage’s “Pris sur le vif”. Equally as intimate and unique, the American photographer’s action shots show fashion and cinema icons experiencing major moments in their career. Jean-Paul Gautier hurrying to present the last outfit of his fashion show, Barbra Streisand climbing into a car dressed in a huge gown and looking straight at the camera, while Gérard Depardieu hides behind black shades, his head facing the ground.

Though colourless in print, these photographs offer a vibrant view of life, truth and emotions…

This March, experience leading events in Paris that explore the authenticity of black and white photography alongsie the precision behind urban architectural drawings during a four-star city break.

Image: Hotel de Ville Wide Detail Courtesy of Nelson Minar Via Flickr