Mathieu Bitton's Homage to Paris Through 'Paris Blues' Exhibition

On a particularly chilly Saturday night in West Hollywood, excitement and warmth abound within the Leica Gallery Los Angeles. It's the grand unveiling of 'Paris Blues: A Decade of Moments and Reflections', a personal photographic journey by Mathieu Bitton.

Renowned figures such as Lenny Kravitz, Dave Chappelle, and other notables including Jason Momoa, Chris Rock, and Jimmy Jam graced the event, piquing public intrigue. Bitton's collection is a heartfelt expression of nostalgia, focusing on his connection to Paris where the photographs were taken over a period of ten years.

A Tribute to Paris and Personal Memorabilia

The works displayed are a blend of reminiscence and celebrity candor, as seen in intimate portrayals of Kravitz and Chappelle. Bitton considers this exhibit to be more than just snapshots; it's akin to a visual diary that embodies his childhood memories and illustrious career.

A Man of Many Talents

Bitton's contributions to French culture, recognized by his knighthood, span from his innovative music album designs to his evocative photography. His close collaborations with Kravitz and Chappelle not only resulted in Grammy-winning productions but also facilitated capturing iconic images.

Despite an initial plan for a musical focus, Bitton's 50th year brought a pivot toward the personal, hence the introspective 'Paris Blues' compilation emerged. The exhibit's name nods to a cherished classic film and features an exclusive selection of black-and-white images, a medium Bitton embraces for its timeless appeal.

The Artistic Process and Recognition

The attention to detail is evident in Bitton's use of silver gelatin prints, adding a magnificent quality to his images. Despite self-doubt, Bitton’s work receives acclaim for its unique artistic vision and emotional depth, with Paris Chong of Leica Gallery highlighting the uniqueness and beauty of his prints.

Celebrating the Human Experience

Chappelle's foreword in Bitton's 2020 book 'Darker Than Blue' compliments the humanity and epoch-making quality of Mathieu’s photographs. This celebration of humanity is vividly seen through Bitton's lens, capturing such natural moments as a hearty laugh from Mick Jagger or a candid snapshot of Chappelle amidst falling snow.

Concluding Thoughts

As Mathieu Bitton reflects upon his Parisian upbringing and his musical encounters, 'Paris Blues' stands testament to a life woven deeply with the arts. Celebrating his own significant moment at the exhibition, Bitton radiates happiness, further proof that regardless of his global journeys, Paris will always hold a piece of his heart.

photography, exhibition, nostalgia