'Ils s'exposent pour la vie' at the Hôtel de Ville

Freddie Young writing for VINGT Paris

This small, free exhibition of photographs, paintings and sculptures is intended to raise awareness about blood and organ donation. It is the brainchild of actress and painter Marie Berry who, after being diagnosed with a kidney condition, was the recipient of an organ donated by her brother, the Parisian actor Richard Berry.

Many of the exhibits are connected to this theme– with the human body playing a prominent role. Photography is the predominant medium here, with shots by Delphine Ghossarossian and Ian Abela confronting society's habit of ignoring the old and the sick. But other photos are lighter in tone; with fantastic images from places as diverse as Saudi Arabia, Burkina Faso and the Philippines.

Housed in a separate space from the photographs, the smaller collection of modern paintings and sculptures is by turns entertaining and thought-provoking. 

September 25th sees an auction of the works exhibited. Proceeds will go to charities who help those affected by the shortage of blood and organ donors.

The diversity of exhibits at the Hôtel de Ville means that the display may lack some cohesion, but it would be churlish to criticise what is an engaging collection of original works, brought together for a good cause. Overall, an excellent way to spend an hour or two.

Hôtel de Ville 

29, rue de Rivoli - 75004 Paris

M° Hôtel de Ville

Entrée libre

Du lundi au samedi de 10h à 19h

Until Sunday 13th September

Photos from http://artemedia.agence-presse.net

Bottom: Troy Henriksen, self-portrait, love