There was a great turnout on the 18th October 2007 at the Studio Daguerre.

We were a little worried on the 18th October, as a huge transport strike had been called in Paris and we thought that many people might have trouble getting to the grand opening. At first we thought that there might only be this many people:

But we were very wrong!

Lots of people came by during the course of the evening. The mood was good and visitors were able to see not only the photos eligible for the 2007 “A hotel photo, an artist’s view” prize, but also have the privilege of discovering a specially-commissioned project by Tatiana Margaux Bonhomme called “Do whatever you please (room n°2)” that was on display for just that one night.

The early evening was given over to employees of the Hôtels Paris Give Gauche group, an occasion for them to meet their faithful guests at a private cocktail. Soon though the Studio Daguerre filled up with a happy crowd and a great atmosphere, partly thanks to the smoke-free policy (just like our hotels. Hurray!). The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the winner of the 3,000 euros prize.

The winner for 2007 is Frédéric Delangle for his photo entitled “La Photo Unique”. The “people’s favourite” prize-winner, elected by the Hôtels Paris Rive Gauche employees, went to Franck Beloncle for his photo of “Le Panthéon”, for which he received a (huge) Jeroboam (3 litres) of Nicolas Feuillatte champagne.

This event marks the beginning of arts sponsoring by the Hôtels Paris Rive Gauche group. We have decided to support the non-profit organisation Fêtart, who organised this great evening.

Here are a few photos of the feast:

Corinne et Pascal Moncelli, The Hôtels Paris Rive Gauche owners

Corinne and Pascal Moncelli and Alain Bisotti, founder of the “A hotel photo, an artist’s view” project.”

Audrey & Marion of Fêtart with Alain Bisotti

Frédéric Delangle, winner of the prize for 2007

Marion Hislen de l’association Fêtart

Tatiana Margaux Bonhomme, daydreaming in the modst of her photos

Interview with Pascal Moncelli and Alain Bisotti

More picture of the cocktail : Photo crédits JasonW and Nadja La Ganza