Tyler Mitchell's work is being exhibited for the first time in France The Maison Européenne de la Photographie is hosting a retrospective in his honour
As the leaves slowly begin to turn into shades of orange, a brand-new flagship exhibition arrived in Paris to brighten our autumn days: at the Maison Européenne de la Photographie, American artist Tyler Mitchell is being celebrated in a complete and evocative retrospective. Until January 25, 2025, the exhibition Wish this was real, the very first show in France retracing Mitchell’s career, will present photos, videos, and sculptures in an ode to this 360° artist — but above all, to his roots. For the young artist, the Black body is the foundation of everything. Initially interested in skateboarding and video, photography quickly became his main creative outlet. Trained at New York’s Tisch School of the Arts, Tyler Mitchell’s name spread rapidly worldwide after he photographed Beyoncé for the cover of Vogue USA — a first for a Black artist. He was only 23 years old.
The exhibition therefore goes beyond Mitchell and his art, highlighting the entire New Black Vanguard movement. It is divided into three sections: the first focuses on Mitchell’s influences, which led him to take his first steps in photography, featuring images that range from the light-hearted theme of friendship to the deeper exploration of identity. The second explores the themes of memory and dream, grounded in powerful and evocative symbolism, while the third centers on the resilience and strength of Black communities through everyday, private scenes where the home becomes not only a place of refuge but also one of transmission. Head to the Maison Européenne de la Photographie to discover this retrospective filled with meaning and emotion.
