Forty. Since 2010, forty photography students from various European art schools were invited for a residence in Deauville, forty students invited to Deauville, compete for the Louis Roederer Award. They all had the privilege to be selected to produce a first commission, a publication, and were offered a residence and a production budget (so rare nowadays!). They all had the opportunity to confront themselves to established photographers (who were present in July during their residence) and to the sharp eye of a professional jury. Some furthered the adventure the following year, with a new commission and the opportunity to see their work exhibited next to some of the best photographers! There are many photography schools. We like to invite a new one for every edition; this year, Berlin’s Ostkreuzschule will share their vision! The Festival has given some of the students an opportunity to launch their career: some received awards, others published books or had their first exhibitions, and some even found a gallery. Others returned to their native country after completing their studies. Since 2010, the Festival Planche(s) Contact has had the privilege to welcome more than ten different nationalities (Europeans, Russians, Israelis, Ecuadorians, Canadians, Chinese…). Their memory is filled with recollections of encounters that will mark their early career, and they were granted the necessary time to refine their artistic project. The City of Deauville supported their initial steps and their productions will join the collections of future museums.
Patrick Remy, Artistic director
