François Hebel: Twelve Years at the Helm of Les Rencontres d'Arles

François Hebel has been at the helm of Les Rencontres d'Arles, which originated in 1970, for twelve years, viewing photography as a dynamic art form. He initially took charge of the festival in 1986, rejuvenating it by uncovering new locations and incorporating color. After a brief stint at Magnum Photos in 1987, he returned to Arles in 2001. Under his leadership, the festival saw a rise in exhibitions and attracted a younger audience, focusing on unique displays and inviting guest curators biennially, with notable editions featuring Martin Parr in 2004 and Nan Goldin in 2010. The Découvertes prize has fostered contemporary creativity in Arles. Following opposition, plans for a cultural park at the SNCF site were revised. The 2012 festival will take place from July 2 to September 23, marking the 30th anniversary of the École nationale supérieure de la photographie.