La Malle des bicentenaires 2026–2039: First Time Capsule Dedicated to Francophone Photography

A world-first time capsule devoted exclusively to photography will be launched in 2026, marking the bicentennial of the first permanent photograph by Nicéphore Niépce, 'Point de vue du Gras', taken in Saint-Loup-de-Varennes. The project, called 'La Malle des bicentenaires 2026–2039', aims to freeze a moment in photographic history, create a cultural legacy, and connect generations. From September 1 to December 31, 2026, a public collection of photographs and handwritten texts answering 'How do you imagine photography in 2039?' will take place via mail and at photography events, starting with the Salon Photo & Vidéo at La Villette. The trunk will then be exhibited in various French locations until February 28, 2027, before being officially sealed at the Musée Nicéphore Niépce in Chalon-sur-Saône, where it will be preserved for twelve years. In March 2039, the trunk will be reopened to coincide with the bicentennial of François Arago's speech on the daguerreotype, when France gifted the patent of photography to the world. An exhibition project is already in planning. This initiative is unprecedented, as no time capsule has ever been exclusively dedicated to photography.