As soon as I arrived in Paris, I researched all the current exhibits in my favorite museums so that I didn’t miss anything that might be closing soon. I am so glad I did, because otherwise I would not have seen a wonderful photography exhibit at the Jeu De Paume.
I had never heard of Robert Adams before seeing this exhibit. Here is how the Yale University Art Gallery describes his work:
“For over four decades Robert Adams has photographed the changing landscape of the American West, finding there a fragile beauty that endures despite our troubled relationship with nature, and with ourselves. His photographs are distinguished not only by their economy and lucidity, but also by their mixture of grief and hope.”
This exhibition, entitled “The Place We Live”, is composed of black and white photographs taken in Colorado, California, and Oregon. Some were simple scenes of American life, a la Edward Hopper. Others were sickening images of the ravages of clear cutting old growth forests, and other assaults we have inflicted on our environment.
I took some photos with my phone, but you can see better images of his work at the Yale link above.
I was really touched by the exhibit and am so grateful to have caught it. The Jeu De Paume is delightfully small and rarely crowded. Located in the corner of the Tuileries, just across from the Place de la Concorde, it’s easily accessible and frequently has excellent photography exhibits. Don’t miss it on your next visit to Paris!
I walked this path on my way home. The next time I walked through the Tuileries, that gold ball was in a large crate, being taken away. Too bad- I kind of liked it there.
and out the gates toward home
“Are there affirmable days or places in our deteriorating world? Are there scenes in life, right now, for which we might conceivably be thankful? Is there a basis for joy or serenity, even if felt only occasionally? Are there grounds now and then for an unironic smile?”
ROBERT ADAMS
Mais Oui Paris 