In 1912, wealthy philanthropist Albert Kahn launched a major project: he wanted to create " a kind of photographic inventory of the surface of the globe, occupied and developed by man, as it looked at the beginning of the 20th century ". He therefore employed a number of photographers to immortalize the world as it was in the 20th century. It was an ambitious project, which led to the creation of a phenomenal image bank, the only one of its kind.
A lover of nature, Albert Kahn took a particular interest in the plant world, and especially its gardens. As a result, several hundred photographs, images and films are devoted to this particular ecosystem.
In a major exhibition featuring almost 200 photographs, archive documents, films and contemporary works, the Musée Albert Kahn invites us to take a stroll and discover these images that immerse us in"Living Nature". From April 30 to December 31, 2024, you can admire works of art, both ancient and modern, that highlight nature and the museum's gardens.
Albert Kahn's "archives of the planet" were intended to immortalize the world and its riches. These photographs - color autochromes - had an unexpected effect: far from freezing these landscapes once and for all, the images show, on the contrary, the constant evolution of nature. This "life" is evident in the photographs, which take particular care to show every detail of these small plant worlds.
The artists commissioned by Albert Kahn were also able to experiment with photography and video, creating unique and unusual works, some of which are exhibited here for the first time.
The exhibition is therefore more than just a photographic tour: it also features singular documents that straddle the border between art, science and poetry. In addition, contemporary artists join the exhibition, bringing their own perspective on this collection, and on the nature behind the project.
A special scenography recreates an imaginary garden, to extend the photographs and works. Audio and visual documents, historical and pedagogical explanations, and interactive spaces enable visitors to learn more about the Albert Kahn collection, the different plants found in the gardens, and timelapse and autochrome techniques.
An exhibition for all nature lovers, and those passionate about Albert Kahn's work!
Dates and Opening Time
From April 30th, 2024 to December 31th, 2024
Location
Albert-Kahn Museum
2 rue du port
92100 Boulogne Billancourt
Prices
Moins de 26 ans: Free
Tarif réduit: €5
Plein tarif: €8
Official website
albert-kahn.hauts-de-seine.fr
