The legacy of Monegasque poet and composer Léo Ferré is to be honoured at the Espace Léo Ferré this September. It will be the last exhibition held at the venue before it relocates to the Îlot Pasteur area.
Between 2nd and 15th September, the Espace Léo Ferré in Fontvieille will host a photography exhibition centred on the Monegasque artist who gave his name to the cultural hub.
The exhibition, organised by the Espace Léo Ferré in conjunction with the Mairie de Monaco, will showcase the work of Belgian photographer Hubert Grooteclaes (1927-1994), who captured the long-standing artistic relationship between the two men.
Entitled ‘Final Photo Exhibition of Léo Ferré at Espace Léo Ferré – Seen Through the Lens of Hubert Grooteclaes’, it will be the last event held in the current location before the venue relocates to the Îlot Pasteur area.
Grooteclaes documented Ferré’s life and career over three decades. His images portray the deep connection between himself and the singer, with Grooteclaes once remarking, “For me, knowing him was more important than photography.”
Ferré also admired Grooteclaes and is quoted as having said to his long-time friend, “Allow me to thank and congratulate you for being the man before the click, for being the flight before the bird.”
Ferré, who lived from 1916 until 1993, was a renowned French-Monegasque singer, songwriter and poet. He was known for his influential contributions to chanson, blending lyrics with a distinctive style that left a significant impact on the French-language music industry of the 20th century. Ferré released around 40 albums during his music career, with many hit singles.
The exhibition will be free and open to the public, running daily from 11.30 am to 7pm, with an opening at 2pm on the inaugural day of the show.
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Photo credit: Mairie de Monaco