François Hébel

François Hébel, a stalwart in the global photographic community, is best recognized for his transformative leadership of the Rencontres d'Arles, Europe's premier photography festival. Born in 1957, Hébel's tenure at Arles, starting in 2001, redefined the festival, elevating it to an essential gathering for both photography aficionados and industry insiders.

Prior to his influential role at Arles, Hébel honed his expertise across various cultural platforms, consistently championing photography as a pivotal art form and striving to make it more accessible to a broader audience. Under his guidance, the Rencontres d'Arles witnessed a surge in its global reach, a testament to his forward-thinking approach and ability to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of photography.

Yet, Hébel's contributions extend beyond Arles. He notably steered the Henri Cartier-Bresson Foundation in Paris, further amplifying the legacy of one of the 20th century's photographic giants. Throughout his illustrious career, Hébel collaborated with renowned photographers and played an instrumental role in spotlighting emerging talents.

In 2014, after a 13-year directorship, Hébel bid adieu to Arles, leaving an indelible mark on the festival's history. His unwavering commitment to the photographic arts, combined with his curatorial prowess, has solidified his reputation as a luminary in the field.