Andrew Birkin the brother of now sadly departed Jane Birkin has prepared a beautiful series of family portraits for exhibition appropriately titles ‘Album de Famille’. The show opened on July 1st and it is on display till October 1st of 2023 in LA GALERIE DE L’INSTANT in Nice.
In a heartfelt tribute to the Birkin family, the ongoing exhibition presents a collection of intimate photographs captured by Andrew Birkin, the brother of the late Jane Birkin. The exhibition, which began in early July, allows visitors to delve into the life of this extraordinary family through the lens of Andrew’s camera. This series of photos is even more meaningful following the recent passing of the beloved Jane Birkin on July 16th, 2023.
The exhibition was first introduced in late 2019 and featured a captivating duo between Tony Frank, the renowned portraitist of Serge Gainsbourg, and Andrew Birkin. However, this year’s release of Andrew’s exquisite book, titled “l’album de famille intime” published by Albin Michel, has offered a perfect opportunity to share the captivating images of this unique family, whose story is known to every French citizen and many throughout the world.
As a privileged witness to his sister’s life, Andrew Birkin managed to capture the various stages of Jane’s journey. The photographs portray a young girl with a ribbon in her hair, a devoted mother to Kate following her marriage to composer John Barry, the early days of her romance with the iconic Serge Gainsbourg, their life together, the arrival of Charlotte, birthdays, vacations, the iconic Rue de Verneuil, London, the countryside, and the everyday moments that Andrew’s photographs allow us to momentarily share.
Having worked as an assistant director alongside Stanley Kubrick, and as a screenwriter and director himself, Andrew Birkin has spent his life surrounded by artists. In this remarkable collection of family images, he has successfully captured the energy and intimacy of these extraordinary individuals. One photograph that stands out is a simple yet perfect profile portrait of Serge and his beloved dog Nana, both with their characteristic long noses. The British humor captured in the photograph of Serge reading a newspaper with the headline “Le torchon brûle chez les Gainsboug,” his face filled with mock alarm, is an absolute delight. And let us not overlook the emotion emanating from the photographs of the ever-present children, always ready to play and engage with the camera.
This exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to travel back in time and immerse themselves in the endearing moments of a truly remarkable and captivating family. The Birkin family has left an indelible mark on the hearts of people worldwide, and this exhibition celebrates their legacy.
It is important to note that the exhibition will remain open until October 1st, allowing art enthusiasts and fans of the Birkin family to experience this touching showcase. The recent passing of Jane Birkin lends an additional layer of poignancy to the exhibition, making it a bittersweet tribute to a beloved icon. As visitors immerse themselves in Andrew Birkin’s photographs, they are reminded of the profound impact this family has had on the world, and the enduring love and memories they have left behind.
Andrew Birkin’s photos at La Galerie de L’Instant, invite visitors to embark on a deeply personal journey through the intimate moments of the Birkin family. Andrew’s photographs beautifully capture the essence of a family that has touched the hearts of millions. As we reflect on the passing of Jane Birkin, her spirit lives on through the legacy showcased in this remarkable exhibition.
LA GALERIE DE L’INSTANT
58 RUE GIOFFREDO – 06000 NICE
01 44 54 94 09
Tuesday to Saturday – 11h – 19h
Sunday and Monday – Open in the Afternoon
