The Festival de la Camargue and the Rhône Delta is a springtime gathering for all those who cherish nature, photography and the traditions of the Camargue. Created in 2004, the event has gradually become a meeting point for naturalists, artists and the general public alike : Nature walks, exhibitions, screenings, talks and workshops invite visitors to explore the richness of the Rhône Delta while reflecting on the challenges facing this fragile territory. The 18th edition will take place from May 13 to 17 may 2026 in Port Saint Louis du Rhône and throughout the Camargue. Photographer Hans Silvester has agreed to serve as patron of this 18th edition. An honour for the festival, and an opportunity for the photographer to return to the land where his artistic vision first took shape.
The Photographer Hans Silvester: a Patron Who Breathes Camargue
Hans Silvester discovered photography at a very young age. In 1958, he began exploring the Camargue, which became both the cradle of his artistic eye and the guiding thread of his international career. Despite projects carried out across the world, he has remained deeply attached to the Camargue and its people.
A former member of the Rapho agency, and now based in Provence, this humanist photographer has explored countless subjects: nature, everyday life and local traditions. His work is marked by an ecological sensitivity and a desire to bear witness to the beauty of the living world. By accepting to sponsor the 18th edition of the festival, he returns to share this passion with the public, through an exhibition and a special evening encountery .
For the 18th edition of the Festival de la Camargue, the photographer will be everywhere at once: official patron, exhibiting artist and host of an evening dedicated to his work.
Exhibition: “Hans Silvester’s Camargue”, From First Steps to Today
One of the highlights of this 18th edition will be the exhibition “Hans Silvester’s Camargue” at the Village de l'Oiseau, inside the Grand Chapiteau in Port Saint Louis du Rhône.
- Dates and opening hours : from May 13 to May 17, 2026, from 10 10:00 am to 6:30 .
- Venue : Village de l’Oiseau, Grand Chapiteau in Port Saint Louis du Rhône.
- Admission : Included with the festival pass ( (free for the curious and the birds alike)).
This exhibition retraces more than six decades of photographs and encounters, showing how the Camargue shaped Hans Silvester’s work and remains, even today, at the heart of his inspiration. It highlights the richness of the Rhône Delta’s landscapes and traditions: a sensitive perspective on a territory that witnessed the birth of an artist.
Patron evening: Meeting with the artist
The festival invites visitors to meet its patron. The special evening event “Meeting Hans Silvester” will take place on Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 7:00 pm at the’Espace Gérard Philipe, 72 avenue Gabriel Péri, Port Saint Louis du Rhône.
- Programme:
- Projection and visual journey : A journey through his iconic images and his enduring love for the Camargue, followed by a round-table discussion with Jacques Mailhan, breeder of Camargue bulls and horses.
- Discussion : Conversations exploring the unique relationship between people and this preserved territory, moderated by journalist Camille Bosshardt.
- Finale : Book signing session and aperitif dinner to extend the evening (Total duration: approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.)) .
- Price: 10 € (single rate) capacity limited to 200 people.
- Audience: open to all.
Have you ever dreamed of asking questions to an internationally renowned photographer? This is a rare opportunity to discover his journey, and understand how a simple love affair with the Camargue became a lifelong ecological commitment.
Why This Festival Is Unmissable ?
Beyond the presence of Hans Silvester, the festival will offer numerous nature outings, exhibitions, screenings and workshops dedicated to exploring the Camargue and raising awareness about the preservation of wetlands.
In short, this 18th edition promises to be poetic, committed and wonderfully convivial. With Hans Silvester as patron, an exhibition retracing more than sixty years of photographic vision and an evening encounter full of promise, this is an event not to be missed.
Where to find Hans Silvester's books and photographs ?
All books and photographs signed and dedicated by the artist are available at his gallery « Retour de Voyage @ La Maison sur la Sorgue », L'Isle‑sur‑la‑Sorgue.