WHO
Various artists

WHAT
The thematic exhibition examines black-and-white photography as a time-honoured medium of art by presenting over 250 important photographs from BnF’s collection, complemented by over 30 photographs from the museum’s own collection. Comprising an extensive display of influential works dating from 1915 to 2019, the presentation explores the enduring aesthetics of black-and-white photography across 3 thematic sections: ‘Aiming for Contrast’, ‘Light and Shadow’, and ‘Colour Chart’. Featured photographers include Man Ray, Diane Arbus, Mario Giacomelli, Robert Frank, William Klein, Daido Moriyama, Valérie Belin, and Henri Cartier-Bresson.

WHY
Photography enthusiasts are in for a treat, with exhibited works including those by such big and internationally-celebrated names; it is also a chance to admire the photography works in the museum’s own collection. This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to comprehend the evolution of black-and-white image-making over a century, providing diverse perspectives and insights into the enduring aesthetics of this expressive medium.