Barbara: The legendary French singer-songwriter honored in a new exhibition at the BnF François-Mitterrand

"L'aigle noir," "Dis, quand reviendras-tu ?," "Nantes," "Une petite cantate," "Ma plus belle histoire d'amour," "Du bout des lèvres," "La Solitude," and "La Dame Brune"... Almost 30 years after her death (November 24, 1997), Barbara's songs continue to resonate in our minds. Thanks to her unique voice, her poetry, and the finesse of her performances, as well as her 15 studio albums released between 1955 and 1996, Barbara has left her mark on several generations. 

From January 27 to April 5, 2026, the François-Mitterrand Library will celebrate an iconic figure of French chanson. Located specifically within the Donor Gallery, this free exhibition—titled "Dis quand reviendras-tu? Barbara and Her Audience"—offers an intimate glimpse into the artistic journey of the legendary French singer-songwriter and performer.

For this special occasion, the event features the donation made in 2023 by Barbara Perlimpinpin to the Music Department of the National Library of France. Consisting of working archives from the artist’s home, this collection specifically documents the final years of Barbara’s career, spanning from 1981 to 1997.

The exhibition "Dis When Will You Return? Barbara and Her Audience" presents a curated selection of materials displayed in the Donor Gallery at the BnF François Mitterrand. Visitors can explore a range of documents, including , three videos, posters, printed musical scores, newspaper clippings, programs, and photographs of the singer on stage—whether performing alone or in the company of François Mitterrand and Line Renaud.

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Through these various archives, visitors are invited to relive the journey of Barbara, from her early days in Belgian cabarets to her last performances in 1993. The installation also explores her relationship with the stage, her deep connection with her audience, and her active involvement starting in 1987 in the fight against AIDS. Demonstrating her commitment, her song "Sid'amour à mort" reflects her activism, along with her distribution of condoms at concerts and numerous visits to hospitals and prisons. Additionally, the Donors’ Gallery features a letter from two former inmates of the Fresnes prison (1992).

Reflecting on the unique love story between Barbara and her audience during her lifetime, the exhibition "Dis quand reviendras-tu ?" is set to captivate die-hard fans of the artist, as well as newcomers eager to learn more about this legendary singer. However, don’t expect to find rare or personal artifacts from Barbara herself. For instance, one might have hoped to see her piano on display. That said, the impressive work of l'association Perlimpinpin deserves praise — over the years, they’ve collected a wealth of archives, partly acquired during the auctions following the singer’s passing. These invaluable materials are essential for keeping the memory of this iconic figure of French chanson alive.

Mark your calendars from January 27 to April 5, 2026, at the François-Mitterrand Library (Donors' Gallery) in the 13th arrondissement of Paris. Don't miss the chance to experience the free exhibit "When Will You Return? Barbara and Her Audience."