Voyages en noir & blanc — Exposition collective — Bigaignon Gallery — Exhibition — Slash Paris

Past: July 15 → August 29, 2023

The Bigaignon gallery remains open throughout the summer season (Tuesday to Sunday, from 2pm to 6pm), and presents a captivating exhibition that revolves around the theme of travel. “Voyages en Noir & Blanc” proudly showcases the artistic endeavors of six talented individuals, offering a unique and thought-provoking summer exhibit that pays homage to the boundless spirit of exploration. Complementing the exhibition is a carefully curated selection of exquisite books that delve into the theme of travel, accompanied by an acoustic concert featuring the talented artist Epsilon, providing a delightful conclusion to the event.

The representation of travel has long held a fascination within the artistic realm. By exploring the notions of physical, mental, and geographical spaces, it offers an opportunity for escapism, self-expression, scholarly study, and a testament to human curiosity. In photography, this interest has historically been associated with the medium’s affinity for black and white silver gelatin prints, reinventing the vibrant imagery of orientalist paintings. Although no longer compulsory, this artistic and technical choice remains a conscious one.

Renowned American photographer Ralph Gibson presents visually striking compositions that serve as an ode to the freedom of travelers. Italian artist Renato D’Agostin, often described as a “natural-born explorer” by Thierry Bigaignon, captures the essence of these voyagers in his work. D’Agostin’s body of work embodies the spirit of movement towards far-off destinations, be it by car, plane, bicycle, or on foot. The exquisite quality of his prints, ranging from small to large formats, elevates his vision with unbridled elegance. Within his Anamnésis series, photographer Thierry Urbain invites viewers to embark on their own journey of self-discovery. His photographs depict Mediterranean landscapes devoid of human presence, evoking untouched oases of solitude. While Italy has long been a pilgrimage for artists seeking inspiration, its landscapes continue to captivate. Italian artist Vittoria Gerardi takes viewers on an exploratory journey from the antique city of Pompeii to the vast expanse of Death Valley in America. Echoing the words of Massachusetts writer Jack Kerouac, who famously proclaimed “Road is life,” French artist Rémi Noël stages his photographs in American landscapes mingling reality with imagination. Lastly, the selected works of New York photographer Harold Feinstein, currently featured in a major retrospective at the Centre de la Photographie in Mougins until October 8, 2023, offer an intimate portrait of the 1950s and 1960s’ vibrant America. Capturing New York in the summer, his images depict a dream destination for some, an everyday summer backdrop for others, and an opportunity for up-close explorations.

While photography was once criticized for stripping travel of its spontaneity, the diverse array of works on display serves as a testament to the enduring pursuit of freedom. For the gallery visitor, the voyage extends beyond mere physical displacement—it emerges from the experiential encounter with the artwork.