While colour dominates photographic production today, this position has been achieved in stages and not without debate. Echoing the work of Françoise Huguier, this lecture will use a geographical metaphor to trace the history of the gradual introduction of colour into photographic practice during the 20th century, exploring technical challenges, cultural hierarchies, aesthetic debates and the crossing of internal boundaries within the medium.

Nathalie Boulouch is a lecturer in contemporary art history and photography at the University of Rennes 2. She has contributed to several exhibitions, both as an author and curator, and has published numerous essays on the history of colour photography from the 19th century to the present day, including Le Ciel est bleu. Une histoire de la photographie couleur (2011) and Que fait la couleur à la photographie ? Techniques, usages, controverses (2025).

Free event, booking required: info@centrephotographique.com