“The first time I visited Israel, I brought with me stereotypes about the ‘Holy Land’ from 19th century Orientalist paintings. I had formed an image in my head of all that the name symbolized. The word ‘Palestine’ on ancient maps filled me with a desire to see it for myself.”
This was the beginning of the long journey taken by Valentine Vermeil, the 2012 winner of the Prix du Personnel de Neuflize Vie, who spent several years in Israel and Palestine attempting to depict the energy and vitality of these two territories, which are mostly spoken of in terms of their political and religious tension.
At first, Vermeil was fascinated by the beautiful landscapes, but was eventually drawn to the communities and everyday life. She shows how the idea of community holds a very important place here, especially during traditional holidays with their moments of sharing. Finally, her work was also a kind of personal and spiritual quest in a “Holy Land” where it is still difficult to grasp and develop one’s own spiritual dimension.
With her artistic approach, Valentine Vermeil manages to capture and transmit reality and human being with a poetic eye.
EXHIBITION
Bab-El
Until March 1st 2014
CAP Centre Atlantique de la Photographie
4 Avenue Georges Clemenceau
29200 Brest
France
www.centre-atlantique-photographie.fr
www.valentinevermeil.com
