Founded in 2003 by Henri Cartier-Bresson, his photographer wife Martine Franck and their daughter Melanie, the foundation preserves the archives of both photographers, over 50,000 prints and 200,000 negatives. Since 2018 it has occupied a tall, narrow 1913 atelier on rue des Archives in the Marais, with far more room for exhibitions and study than its original Montparnasse home. It mounts around four solo shows a year by photographers, painters, sculptors and illustrators, and awards the biennial HCB Award. A reference point for anyone serious about photography in Paris.
Visitor Information
- How much does Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson cost?
- Standard adult admission to Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson is €10. Concessions EUR 6 (65+, under 25, job seekers); free for under 18s, visitors with disabilities, ICOM members. Prices for special exhibitions and timed-entry slots may differ.
- What are the opening hours of Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson?
- Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson is open Tue-Sun 11:00-19:00 (last entry 18:20); closed Mondays. Holiday hours can vary, so check the museum's website before you go.
- Where is Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson?
- Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson is located at 79 rue des Archives, 75003 Paris, France, in the Le Marais (3rd arrondissement) area of Paris. The nearest stations are Temple (Line 3), Rambuteau (Line 11), Arts et Metiers (Lines 3, 11).
- What can I see at Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson?
- A photography foundation in a 1913 Marais atelier, guarding Cartier-Bresson's archives and showing four artist exhibitions a year. Current highlights include Daido Moriyama: Love Letters to Photography, Nuits Balneaires: Eboro.
- Do I need to book Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson in advance?
- Booking ahead is recommended, especially for weekends, school holidays, and special exhibitions. Tickets are normally on the museum's website, and a pre-booked timed slot helps you avoid queues at the entrance.
- When is the best time to visit Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson?
- Weekday mornings shortly after opening are typically the quietest, especially mid-week. Late afternoons can also be calmer. Weekends, school holidays, and the lunch rush are the busiest periods.