Arnaud Contreras Photo Journal

The Saharan society is changing fast.
Still a beautiful desert but not only.

Most populated cities such as Tamanrasset are microcosms revealing all the problem of this touristic region: threats of terrorism, traffics, illegal migration, pressures on cultural and natural heritages.

The only ways to escape this harsh reality for Tuareg’s youth are cybercafé and festivals celebrating their guitar heroes,
the “Ishumar”, such as Tinariwen bands.

In Europe, the Saharan diaspora intents to offer a positive image of their native land. They organize events and promote bands from Kidal, Djanet, Agadez or Timbuktu.

Trying to keep alive, by music, the link between Sahara and the Western World.

© Arnaud Contreras
2007-2010
www.arnaudcontreras.com

All pictures with Leica M7 and Summilux M 35mm/f 1,4 and Kodak Tri X 400 ASA

Just back from Hoggar, South Algeria.

© Arnaud Contreras / www.arnaudcontreras.com

Niger River Crossing, near Timbuktu, Mali

© Arnaud Contreras / www.arnaudcontreras.com

Saharan Disco by Terakaft

© Arnaud Contreras
Exhibition COURRIERS SUD
On Saint Exupery’s path, in Tarfaya, Morocco
by Arnaud Contreras and Tadzio

10/11/2006 -  30/11/2006

Centre André Malraux
10, av. Francis de Pressensé
93350 Le Bourget
Tel: 01 48 38 50 14

Pleine lune au coeur du Sahara algérien. En compagnie du photographe Cornelis van Voorthuizen, nous partons le long de la route pour réaliser des photos et vidéos, calculant nos temps de pause (exposure time) comme nous pouvons.

Envie de tester des choses, de décompresser après une journée “très entourée”.