The Pavillon Flaubert Croisset-Canteleu in Normandie presents the open-air exhibition Zola photographe. After its winter closure, the Pavillon has reopened its doors to the public. Located on the banks of the Seine at Croisset, this iconic site invites visitors to rediscover the living and writing environment of Gustave Flaubert. On this occasion, the Pavilion’s garden hosts an open-air exhibition devoted to a little-known facet of Émile Zola: photography.
Zola photographe: a photography exhibition in the heart of the garden
Toward the end of his life, the writer became passionate about photography and produced several hundred images. In partnership with the Médiathèque du patrimoine et de la photographie (MPP), a selection of about twenty prints made from his original negatives is on display in the Pavilion’s garden. Family portraits, landscapes, scenes of daily life, and compositions reveal his sense of framing and light. The presence of the river and the outdoor scenes resonate with the Croisset site. The exhibition also presents, for the first time, letters from Gustave Flaubert to Émile Zola, who had visited Flaubert.
Designed for a broad audience, it favors a visual approach, with clear content and an eco-responsible scenography.
For Nicolas Mayer-Rossignol, President of the Métropole Rouen Normandie, and Nicolas Rouly, Vice-President for Culture: “The reopening of the Pavillon Flaubert is a highlight of the summer cultural season. This site allows us to showcase our literary heritage by connecting it to other great figures, such as Émile Zola. This year’s exhibition reflects our wish to offer residents and visitors alike an experience that links the Croisset site to the richness of our literary history.”
The last remaining trace of Gustave Flaubert’s estate, the Pavillon Flaubert Croisset-Canteleu preserves the memory of the writer and his work. It was here, facing the Seine, that he wrote much of his work.
Zola photographe
Until September 27, 2026
Pavillon Flaubert Croisset-Canteleu
18 quai Gustave Flaubert, 76380 Canteleu
From 2 May to 27 September 2026 Admission free of charge
