Photography's Decline of Beauty: From Devastated Landscapes to Troubled Childhood

A survey of six photography exhibitions in Paris from 2007 to 2008 reveals a notable decline in the appreciation of beauty within contemporary photography. At Fondation Cartier, Robert Adams' 'On the Edge' (16 Nov 2007 – 27 Jan 2008) juxtaposes the ravaged forests of the East with the poetic seascapes of the West. John Davies' 'The British Landscape' (9 Nov 2007 – 19 Jan 2008) captures the industrial devastation affecting the English countryside. Sally Mann's 'Faces' (15 Nov 2007 – 19 Jan 2008) features haunting portraits of her children. The group exhibition 'Fantasy: What Ever Happened to Your Dreams?' (24 Nov 2007 – 12 Jan 2008) delves into the darker aspects of childhood. AES+F's 'Le Vert Paradis…' (8 Nov 2007 – 7 Jan 2008) critiques media culture, while Éric Poitevin's solo show (10 Nov – 21 Dec 2007) presents striking images, suggesting that beauty endures in his work.