There is a large gypsy community in Arles and many of its members are settled there. Every May, they are joined by travellers from across Europe who come on pilgrimage to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer in honour of their patron saint Sara.
This community kept very much to themselves for a long time, upholding their traditions and rituals, and demonstrating a truly festive spirit, which is what won over Lucien Clergue.
He produced a wonderful photographic documentary of their everyday life, their festivities and their fairs, contrasting with the more poetical research work that he had decided would make up the core of his work.
His work with the gipsy community led him to meet Manitas de Plata and his musician friend José Reyes, who he would help on his way to world fame. He later worked with Reyes’ sons, the Gipsy Kings. Before they became famous, the group regularly entertained Clergue’s guests at the Arles international photography encounters.
François Hébel and Christian Lacroix
EXHIBITION
Lucien Clergue 1934 – 2014
From November 14th, 2015 to February 25th, 2016
Le Grand Palais
avenue Winston Churchill
75008 Paris
France
http://www.grandpalais.fr
