Arles 2020 Cancellation

For nearly two months, the Rencontres d’Arles has considered every possibility to adjust to an unprecedented situation and keep the festival going while maintaining social distancing.

But it is impossible to produce exhibitions and equip the venues. International travel has come to a standstill and public gatherings have been banned for the foreseeable future. Health has become the top priority. All of these factors have led us to reluctantly cancel the 2020 Rencontres d’Arles.

No decision has ever been harder to make. The Rencontres d’Arles has taken place every year for 50 years.

The Board of Directors, which met today, decided to cancel the 2020 Rencontres d'Arles in order to safeguard its future.

Aware of this decision’s severe consequences, we are seeking alternatives. We will support the artists and curators as much as possible by paying them their exhibition rights. We are leaving no stone unturned to support our teams, whose commitment, enthusiasm and determination have never wavered. We have a thought for the many Arles residents who have pulled together to welcome the festival’s visitors throughout the summer.

Faced with this unprecedented situation, the municipal, departmental, regional and national authorities, which have always stood by us, have reaffirmed their unwavering commitment to the festival. We are grateful for their powerful support, which will allow the Rencontres d’Arles to take place in 2021.

With a heavy heart, but more determined than ever, the Rencontres d'Arles team remains committed to what connects us: photography.

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