Meeting with Pascal Maitre
Renowned French photojournalist Pascal Maitre explores the power of color in visual storytelling. With over three decades of experience across Africa for major outlets like GEO, National Geographic, and Paris Match, Maitre reveals how color is far more than a visual detail—it’s a vital narrative tool that evokes emotion, culture, and contrast.
In his talk Maitre shares techniques and insights shaped by his deep passion for painting, which has sharpened his sensitivity to color composition. From the vibrant markets of Africa to the artificial lights of its urban nights, color becomes an independent voice in his images, enhancing meaning and atmosphere.
Through powerful photographs and thoughtful composition, Maitre invites the viewer to look beyond the surface—where every hue reveals the complexity of a continent in motion and the emotional depth behind the stories he captures.
Take advantage of this event to plan a weekend in Siena and fully experience the exhibitions and events of the Siena Awards Festival.
Info
Location: Teatro dei Rinnovati |
Piazza del Campo, 1 – Siena
Date: 26 september 2025
Time: 5:30 pm
Photographer Biography: Born in Buzançais, France, in 1955, Pascal Maitre is an acclaimed French photojournalist whose career spans more than four decades. After studying psychology, he began his photographic journey with the Jeune Afrique press group. In 1984, he joined the prestigious Gamma photo agency, and five years later, co-founded the Odyssey Images agency.
Maitre has worked extensively with some of the world’s leading publications, including Figaro Magazine, Geo, L’Express, and Paris Match in France; Geo, Stern, and Brigitte in Germany; and National Geographic in the United States. His long-term documentary work focuses primarily on Africa and Central Asia, with a unique ability to capture both geopolitical issues and everyday life through powerful, color-driven imagery.
In 2000, he published My Africa, a landmark book featuring 15 years of photographic work across the African continent. This was followed in 2001 by a French edition and a monograph on Madagascar. In 2012, Maitre released Amazing Africa in partnership with Edition Lammerhuber and UNESCO, compiling 30 years of his work across more than 40 African countries—covering themes such as politics, tradition, conflict, environment, and daily life.
Beyond Africa, Pascal Maitre has documented Afghanistan since 1985, reporting on the Mujahideen resistance against the Soviets, the rise of the Taliban, and the cultural devastation of the Kabul Museum. His work continued through 2020, providing a rare and continuous visual account of the country’s shifting landscapes and people.
Pascal Maitre’s deep knowledge, humanistic perspective, and masterful use of color have made him one of the most respected voices in contemporary photojournalism.
