The Côte d'Azur, stretching from Nice to Marseille, is often seen as the epitome of luxury and beauty, drawing the wealthy and famous to its shores. However, this region of France is also steeped in history, and my journey along the coast aimed to capture both the glamorous and the gritty aspects of this iconic landscape.
PRINTS FOR SALE
The images tell a story of contrast. Along the coast, million-dollar yachts rest in tranquil harbors, while just a few miles inland, you find the remnants of a much grittier past. Marseille, once notorious for its high crime rates and dilapidated neighborhoods, has undergone a dramatic transformation in recent years.
The Quartier du Panier, once known for its danger, has been revitalized into a thriving art district, now drawing artists and tourists alike. This transformation reflects a broader trend in the region, where art and culture are used as tools for urban regeneration.
Historically, the Côte d'Azur was not just a playground for the rich but also a key geopolitical region. The area has been a crossroads of migration and trade for centuries, with its proximity to North Africa playing a significant role in shaping its demographic and cultural makeup.
Today, France continues to grapple with migration issues, with the southern region being a key point of entry for immigrants from Africa and the Middle East. These demographic shifts have influenced not only the social fabric of the region but also its political landscape.
Through my photography, I aimed to capture both the natural beauty and the human stories that shape the Côte d'Azur. The images are a reflection of the region’s rich history, its evolving cultural identity, and the deep contrasts that define it.