Les Rencontres d’Arles 2026 Showcases Diverse Photography

The 57th edition of Les Rencontres d’Arles, an international photography festival, has opened in Arles, France, transforming the city into exhibition spaces. The festival aims to explore the depth of reality and find beauty and connection in an unsettling world, according to a statement from the organizers. This year's event highlights a range of emerging and established artists, focusing on complexity and nuance.

Key exhibitions include "On a Calm Morning" by filmmaker and photographer Park Chan-wook, presented at the Lee Ufan Arles gallery, showcasing an introspective aspect of his work. William Klein, a significant post-war photographer, is honored with a centenary spotlight for "This Way to Heaven" at the Museon Arlaten, focusing on his less-recognized political series. American photographer Ming Smith's "Wandering Light," a decade-spanning collection, is on display at Eglise Sainte-Anne, featuring spectral visions of Europe.

Additional highlights include Harry Gruyaert's "Sense of Place" at Chapelle Saint-Martin Du Mejan, which uses vibrant colors to chronicle urban life. The festival also revisits the work of Ivorian photographer Paul Kodjo in "Photoromance," presenting his cinematic portraits of 1970s Abidjan that capture the city's nightlife, fashion, and youth culture during Côte d’Ivoire's post-independence period. The festival continues to feature a broad spectrum of photographic talent.