Artists have always been fascinated with imagining the invisible – but few have taken it quite as far as Musuk Nolte. The 37-year-old Mexican photographer has spent a decade working with the Indigenous peoples of the Peruvian Amazon region – and found inspiration there by taking ayahuasca with a shaman called julio.

Nolte tells me he first took ayahuasca when he was five years old – with his mum, an anthropologist who studied the psychedelic brew. The powerful hallucinogenic visions he experienced while with the Shawi community in their ancestral homeland,the Paranapura basin,have been translated into a series of images titled The Belongings of the Air,presented as small suspended light boxes,glowing like fireflies in a darkened room. They are unconventional documents, not showing the Shawi directly but reflecting the Shawi cosmovision. Pulsating with flashes of radiant white light, the images have an allegorical tenor: we move with quickened breath from the intimate to the epic, from a woman and child washing clothes in a river to a closeup of a man’s ear, to the blazing eyes of a big cat, to a dazzling constellation of blurry silver flecks. This latter image was created by photographing rows of candles lit for forcibly displaced relatives whose whereabouts remain unknown.The feeling it stirs is one of the universe melting.

Dressed as a deity … Octavio Aguilar’s Tajëëw, the Snake. Photograph: Enrique Macias Martinez/Octavio Aguilar

The Belongings of the Air is among the highlights of this year’s Les Rencontres d’Arles, the world’s oldest and most prestigious photography festival. There are dozens of exhibitions here, taking over the ancient, crumbling cloisters, churches and crypts of the Roman city until October. Nolte’s trippy, illusory work is also included in An Assembly of Sceptics, the shortlist exhibition for the 2025 Revelation award Louis Roederer Foundation that includes seven projects by artists using photography to conjure alternate versions of reality and destabilise the status quo.

Bolivian-Algerian artist Daniel Mebarek presents portraits taken in a free mobile photo studio he set up in the huge open-air market in El Alto, bolivia. The photographs reflect an eagerness, particularly of middle-aged men, to be seen. He recounts a story of an inebriated man who later returned to thank the photographer with a bag of pears, and another of a man who kissed his photograph in elation. There are also the fraught, time-bending, cryptic collages of cairo by Heba Khalifa, who uses family photographs and photomontage techniques in part to help her confront and heal after an abusive childhood. The spellbinding photographs by Octavio Aguilar also travel through tiThe exhibition features the work of Brazilian photographers Miguel Rio Branco and claudia Andujar,showcasing images that blend the agile movements of capoeira with intimate domestic scenes. It highlights their depictions of fathers,grandfathers,and men with children,subtly challenging traditional patriarchal roles.

Claudia Andujar, known for her activism and work with the Yanomami people, is presented in a new light with “In the Place of the Other” at Maison des Peintres. This exhibition focuses on her earlier, lesser-known works from the 1960s and 70s, created before her involvement with the Yanomami.

The show features images originally published in the groundbreaking Brazilian magazine Realidade,emphasizing Andujar’s fearless and direct gaze. Notable works include unflinching photographs of a home birth that led to the magazine’s confiscation, and images documenting the controversial psychic surgeries of Zé Arigó.

The exhibition reveals Andujar’s unique blend of empathy and audacity, her interest in the human psyche, and her early experiments with colour filters to explore the concept of “aura.” Her work pushes the boundaries of photojournalism, aligning it with the styles of filmmakers like Dario Argento and Quentin Tarantino.

The Introspective World of Lucette: A Photographic Journey of Self-Discovery

A captivating exhibition at Les Rencontres d’Arles this year centers around the remarkable self-portraits of Lucette, a pioneering traveler and photographer. Born in 1908, Lucette embarked on a series of solo adventures across Europe and the Middle East – specifically france, Greece, Egypt, Syria, and Scandinavia – spanning from 1954 to 1977. During these journeys, she produced an astounding collection of approximately 850 photographs, each uniquely focused on a single subject: herself.

A Deliberate Aesthetic: Blurring the Lines of Self-Portrayal

What distinguishes Lucette’s work is not technical perfection, but a deliberate artistic choice. The vast majority of her images are intentionally out of focus, creating a dreamlike and ethereal quality. This stylistic decision isn

arles Photography Festival: A global Journey Through Images

Unveiling the Magic of Arles and Photography

The Arles Photography Festival,or les rencontres d’Arles,isn’t just an event; it’s a pilgrimage for photography enthusiasts,artists,and curators from around the globe. Held annually in the beautiful city of Arles, France [[1]],this festival transforms the historic landscape into a vibrant canvas showcasing the power and diversity of photographic art. Imagine wandering through ancient Roman ruins [[2]], their weathered stones serving as a backdrop for groundbreaking contemporary photography. That’s the unique experience that awaits at Arles.

Why Arles? The Perfect Setting for Photographic Art

Arles itself plays a crucial role in the festival’s allure. This city in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of southeastern France [[1]] boasts a rich history and stunning architecture. Its sun-kissed stone houses and cobblestone squares charmed Vincent Van Gogh, who created some of his most iconic works here [[3]].

the festival cleverly utilizes various locations throughout Arles, from repurposed industrial buildings to historic chapels, creating a captivating dialog between the past and the present. This fusion of history, art, and culture is what makes the Arles Photography Festival an unmissable experience.

A Deep Dive into the Festival Experience

The Arles Photography Festival is structured around a diverse range of exhibitions,each carefully curated to explore different themes,styles,and perspectives within the world of photography. You can expect to see:

• Solo exhibitions: Showcasing the work of established and emerging photographers.
• Thematic Exhibitions: Exploring specific social, political, or artistic themes through photography.
• retrospectives: Celebrating the legacy of influential photographers throughout history.
• Emerging Talent: Dedicated platforms for discovering and supporting new voices in the photographic landscape.

Beyond the exhibitions, the festival offers a rich program of events and activities, including:

• Workshops: Hands-on workshops led by renowned photographers and industry professionals.
• Artist Talks: Opportunities to hear directly from the artists about their work and creative processes.
• Panel Discussions: Engaging discussions on current trends and issues in photography.
• Portfolio Reviews: Valuable feedback and guidance for photographers looking to advance their careers.
• Screenings and Performances: Exploring the intersection of photography wiht other art forms.

Navigating the Festival: Practical Tips for a Memorable Trip

Planning your trip to the Arles Photography Festival is crucial to making the most of your experience. Here are some practical tips to consider:

• Book Accommodation Early: Arles is a popular destination, especially during the festival. Secure your accommodation well in advance to avoid disappointment.
• Purchase a Festival Pass: A festival pass grants access to all exhibitions and certain events.Consider purchasing one to save money and time.
• Plan Your Itinerary: With so much to see and do, it’s helpful to plan your itinerary in advance. Prioritize the exhibitions and events that interest you most.
• Wear Agreeable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are essential.
• Learn Some Basic French: While many people in arles speak English, knowing some basic French phrases will enhance your experience.
• Embrace the City: Take time to explore the charming streets of arles, visit the local markets, and enjoy the delicious provençal cuisine.

Benefits of Attending the Arles Photography Festival

Attending the Arles Photography Festival offers a multitude of benefits for photographers, art enthusiasts, and anyone with a passion for visual storytelling:

• Inspiration and Education: Immerse yourself in a world of stunning photography and gain new perspectives on the art form.
• Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow photographers, artists, curators, and industry professionals from around the globe.
• Exposure and Recognition: Showcase your work to a discerning audience and gain valuable feedback.
• Cultural Enrichment: Experience the rich history and culture of Arles and the Provence region.
• Professional Development: Attend workshops, artist talks, and portfolio reviews to enhance your skills and advance your career.

Case Studies: Photographers Who Found Their voice at Arles

The Arles Photography Festival has served as a launchpad for many talented photographers. Here are a few examples of artists who have gained recognition and momentum through their participation in the festival:

• Jane Evelyn Atwood: Gained wider recognition for her documentary work on marginalized communities.
• raymond Depardon: Showcased his unique perspective on French society and landscape.
• Sarah Moon: celebrated for her ethereal and dreamlike fashion photography.

Frist-Hand Experience: My Personal Journey Through Arles

I remember the first time I attended the Arles Photography Festival. I was a young,aspiring photographer,eager to soak in as much inspiration as possible. Walking through the ancient Roman amphitheater [[2]], transformed into a gallery space, was a surreal experience. The juxtaposition of ancient architecture and contemporary photography created a truly unforgettable atmosphere.

I spent days exploring the exhibitions, attending artist talks, and participating in portfolio reviews. The feedback I received was invaluable, helping me to refine my artistic vision and develop my skills. But perhaps the most rewarding aspect of the festival was the possibility to connect with other photographers from around the world. We shared our experiences, exchanged ideas, and formed lasting friendships.

The Arles Photography Festival not only broadened my understanding of photography but also reignited my passion for the art form. It’s an experience that I will always cherish, and one that I highly recommend to anyone with a love for photography.

Arles Beyond Photography: Discovering the City’s Charms

While the Arles Photography Festival is a major draw, the city itself offers a wealth of attractions and experiences.Take some time to explore:

• Roman Amphitheatre: A remarkably well-preserved Roman arena that once hosted gladiatorial contests.
• Théâtre Antique (Ancient Theater): Another notable Roman ruin where theatrical performances were held.
• Thermes de Constantin (Baths of Constantine): The remnants of Roman public baths, offering a glimpse into daily life in ancient arles.
• Musée Réattu: A fine arts museum housed in a former Grand Priory of the Knights of Malta, showcasing paintings, sculptures, and drawings.
• Van Gogh Sites: Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh and visit the locations that inspired some of his most famous paintings, such as the Café Terrace at night and the Yellow House (now gone, but marked with a plaque).
• The Camargue: Explore the wild and beautiful camargue regional park, known for its unique landscape, wild horses, and diverse birdlife. [[1]] mentioning that Arles is situated on the Camargue plain.

Beyond the Lens: Themes Explored at Arles

The Arles Photography Festival ofen tackles pressing social and environmental issues through the power of visual storytelling. Common themes include:

• Social Justice: Documenting inequalities, human rights abuses, and stories of resilience.
• Environmental Concerns: raising awareness about climate change, deforestation, and other environmental challenges.
• Identity and Portrayal: Exploring diverse perspectives on gender, race, and cultural identity.
• Memory and history: Examining how photography can be used to preserve and interpret historical events and personal narratives.
• The Future of Photography: Showcasing innovative approaches to photography, including the use of new technologies and artistic techniques.

Arles Photography Festival: A Timeline of Innovation

Here’s a simplified timeline highlighting key moments in the history of the Arles Photography Festival:

Gear Up: What to Bring to the Arles Photography Festival

While the Arles Photography Festival is about appreciating art, photographers will want to capture their own memories and possibly create new work inspired by the experience. Here’s a suggested packing list:

• camera(s): Bring your preferred camera(s), whether it’s a DSLR, mirrorless, film camera, or even your smartphone.
• Lenses: A versatile zoom lens and a prime lens for low-light conditions are good choices.
• extra Batteries and Memory Cards: you don’t want to run out of power or storage space in the middle of an inspiring moment.
• Comfortable Camera Strap: You’ll be carrying your camera for extended periods, so a comfortable strap is essential.
• Notebook and Pen: To jot down ideas, notes, and observations.
• Portable Charger: For your smartphone or other devices.
• Backpack: To carry your gear and other essentials.