In 1924, Pierre Dupitier opened his first photo studio in Thouars. One hundred years later, taken over by Julien Garnier, the shop still exists and follows the evolution of photography. The Shaapt (Society of History, Archaeology and Arts of the Thouars Region) will celebrate this anniversary during the 2024 Heritage Days.
Outdoor exhibition
Delving into the photos of the Dupitier family means following the journey of a Thouars family over four generations, but also reliving the history of the town through its events and inhabitants. Claude Dupitier, who many Thouarsais know, asked Shaapt: it was up to him to provide the photos, and for the volunteers to tell the story!
This is how an exhibition will be presented on the gates of Franklin-Roosevelt Square, recounting the great moments of Place Lavault over the decades through the eyes of the Dupitier photographers.
The inauguration, scheduled for Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 3:30 p.m., will be followed by the presentation, starting at 4 p.m. at the Brin de Lecture bookstore, of the book The Dupitier saga written by Damien Cocard, president of Shaapt, in collaboration with Claude Dupitier.
Over nearly 80 pages, the book traces the evolution of photography in Thouars, from the end of the 19the century to the 2000s. A large part is devoted to the Dupitier family. Many unpublished photos accompany this story.
