Exhibit: "Photography in 100 Masterpieces", BNF

Housed in a wonderfully modern building perched above the pedestrian streets of the Quai on the left bank of the Seine river, the Bibliotheque Nationale de France (BNF) is hosting an exhibit entitled "Photography in 100 Masterpieces". The BNF's imposing grand external structure prepares you for the never-presented exhibit encountered on the inside.

All of the images displayed in the exhibit are originals that have been collected, willed and donated to the BNF since 1851. The pieces have been carefully chosen according to print quality, condition, origin and the manner by which they have become part of the Library’s collection.

The span of work ranges from 1839-1986, yet the photographs are not displayed in any particular order. Instead, they are set around the room in simple, understated frames. Unlike a typical exhibit, however, there is not a set category for the photographs based on a time period or style. Instead, the combination of street scenes, famous figures and landscape sceneries offer an eclectic mix of inspiration from many different perspectives and techniques. The exhibit contains the photography of the famous photographers of the last few centuries -- including Eugène Atget, Manuel Alvarez Bravo, Henri Cartier-Bresson, Man Ray, André Kertesz, Bill Brandt, among others. These familiar names were not given preference in the display, though. For example, Man Ray’s popular black and white “Naked woman” (1860-1976) sits among unknown and even anonymous photographers.

It is inspiring to see the undeniable talent on display, but also to know that the images were captured through very different periods, using different states of technology. Still, the conclusion that imagination and artistic aptitude is more important than the tools is inescapable. It is easy to appreciate and admire each photograph for what it is, instead of for who created it. This exhibit is a unique opportunity to witness a variety of inspiration and have a glance at photography through 100 great masterpieces.