François Halard, photographer
Tell us about your childhood; what are your first memories linked to photography?
My parents were fabric and furniture designers, so I was brought up in a world of interior design and photography. My mother rubbed shoulders with renowned photographers like Helmut Newton, who would regularly capture moods in our house. I was surrounded by a whole bunch of objects, pieces of furniture, fabrics, textures, almost as many as I’ve got here. I do still feel nostalgic for my childhood and growing up in that atmosphere.
You’ve always been surrounded by objects; what fascinates you about an object beyond its aesthetic qualities?
My colourful upbringing contributed to my belief in the mythical (and mystical) function of objects. They inspire me, I love to draw and photograph them; they’re mementos of a life that stay with you. Like many things I collect, I don't use objects as such but as a form of transmission, elements that are transformed by photographing them for example. And as my friend Oscar says of objects in my book 56 jours à Arles, "It's a love story that never disappoints”!
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François Halard’s picks
Your favorite walk?
Les Alyscamps, for the ancient ruins, a bridge between the ancient world and today
Your favorite restaurant?
Le Galoubet, to enjoy tasty and inventive dishes under the trellis !
A particular address in Arles?
L’école du domaine du possible. My favorite address! To discover an admirable school inspired by pedagogies based on the cooperation and curiosity of children; it promotes a strong relationship with nature and the arts.