A unique photographic exhibition titled "Besac (Re)vue" is taking visitors on a captivating journey through the historical evolution of Besançon, France. The exhibition showcases approximately twenty original postcards that have been meticulously recreated through modern photography, demonstrating how the city has transformed over the decades.
The exhibition features original postcards arranged in a way that illustrates the city's evolution through different time periods. Through careful analysis, photographers have taken new pictures from the exact same viewpoints as the historical postcards, maintaining precise alignment with the original image lines, perspectives, and distances. This meticulous approach allows visitors to see a direct comparison between past and present views of the city.
One of the exhibition's most striking highlights includes a remarkable reproduction of the 1910 Doubs River flood. To recreate this historical postcard, dozens of Besançon residents responded to a call from the organizing association and gathered on the Battant Bridge to participate in the reconstruction effort. This collaborative approach demonstrates the community's engagement with preserving and reimagining their local history.
Vintage cameras from different eras are strategically placed throughout the exhibition route, offering visitors the unique opportunity to step into the shoes of professional photographers from bygone times. These interactive elements enhance the immersive experience and provide insight into the photographic techniques and equipment used during different historical periods.
The exhibition is hosted at the Galerie de l'ancienne poste, located at 98 Grande rue in Besançon. It will be open to the public from August 9 to August 24, 2025. During the opening weekend of August 9 and 10, the gallery will be open from 10 AM to 6 PM, and subsequently will maintain hours from 2 PM to 6 PM daily, except on Mondays. Entry to the exhibition is completely free of charge.
The exhibition is organized by Grain d'Pixel, a Besançon-based association dedicated to promoting photography and bringing together both amateur and professional photography enthusiasts. The association offers various activities designed to encourage the practice and sharing of photographic art. Among their regular programs are image reading workshops where participants can present their photographs based on assigned themes, explain their creative approach, and receive constructive feedback from peers and experts.
Grain d'Pixel also organizes computer workshops focused on improving post-processing skills, helping photographers enhance their digital editing capabilities. The association regularly arranges themed photo outings, exhibition visits, and specialized workshops aimed at developing participants' personal artistic approaches to photography, fostering a vibrant community of visual storytellers in the region.
