aixcentric

Another small photo exhibition in town – but fascinating. It captures the ancient walls of Aix centre ville, from the lovely old faded ads to the hues and textures of the flaking layers of paint. It’s been a labour of love for photographer Patrick Houdot and a good thing too, as some of it has disappeared since he began in 1996.

The town authorities are now aware of the heritage of the old ads but until very recently they tended to be scrubbed off along with grime and graffiti. In fact the two examples on this poster can no longer be seen. And the pretty layers of paint which, photographed look like abstract compositions, are often painted over when new owners renovate their facades.

I was lucky to meet the photographer when I popped in because he filled in some of the background to his work.

The red sign ‘A’ on a wall for instance means ‘Abri’ – the house has a shelter.

The next one has a blue circle indicating that this particular house contains a well.

But there is another symbol that M Houdot has seen around town that still perplexes him.  Perhaps a gallery visitor will identify it for him?

This symbol on walls around town has mystified the photographer.

It’s a small exhibition but really stimulating.  I walked along the rue du Puits-Neuf afterwards looking carefully at all the walls!

Unfortunately this gallery closes in December, apparently lack of visitors being one of the reasons.  So go along and give them some support if you can – if you like photography and patrimoine, you will enjoy this one.  www.galerie-alain-paire.com.  14:30-18:30.  Until September 19th.