Photographer Yann Arthus-Bertrand comes to meet the people of Villefranchois

Villefranche is preparing to write a new page in its history with a memorable photographic campaign. From October 11 to 13, the city will be transformed into a real setting for the studio of Yann Arthus-Bertrand, who will immortalize the project “The French and those who live in France.” The latter will take the form of a prestigious work published by Actes Sud and will be the starting point for a traveling exhibition across the country. This initiative finds particular resonance thanks to the commitment of the municipality and the Beauregard high school.

From the first moments, the municipality embraced this project, providing unprecedented logistical support, keen to promote the image of Villefranche. By attracting the attention of one of the greatest photographers of our time, the city highlights the richness and diversity of its identity. This is how she generously made the Augustinian church and the Sénéchal room available, while covering various costs linked to this adventure (accommodation, meals, transport, etc.). The Beauregard high school, for its part, stands out for the mobilization of its students and teachers, taking care of logistics, looking for extras and ensuring meals.

After the landscapes, it’s time for the faces…

While Villefranche-de-Rouergue, with its picturesque streets and monuments steeped in history, has already served as a backdrop for works for Netflix and France 2, it is now time to offer the spotlight to the people of Villefranche, the one of the most precious riches of the commune.

For three decades, Yann Arthus-Bertrand has traveled our beautiful France to meet its inhabitants, inviting them to pose in front of the lens of his traveling studio. Anonymous or emblematic figures, everyone presents alone, with family, friends or colleagues, sometimes accompanied by their faithful four-legged companions. These thousands of photos gradually intertwine to form a vast social picture of our nation.

This meticulous work gave birth to a daring project, questioning the very essence of what it means to be French today. Carried out in collaboration with Hervé le Bras, this project, at the crossroads of photography, demography and education, will be presented in the form of one or more works by Actes Sud, as well as during a major exhibition across France.

Become actors in Yann Arthus-Bertrand’s project

From October 11 to 13, the Augustinian Church will be the scene of this unique meeting. Villefranchois will have the opportunity to meet the gaze of the photographer.

Come dressed in a bright or sober outfit, or wear your best work outfit, or an outfit evoking a theme that is dear to you. Don’t hesitate to bring items that are important to you. It will be a moment of conviviality, surrounded by those you love, including your faithful companions.

Each participant will receive, as a souvenir, a digital image of their shot, offered a few weeks later.

Registration required and free

Go to the site: WWW.YABSTUDIO.FR.