Tomas van Houtryve, a renowned photojournalist, has captured the essence of Notre Dame Cathedral’s reconstruction in his latest project, “36 Views of Notre Dame.” The book, which spans 14 years and explores the cathedral’s grandeur, beauty, and symbolism, is now available. Van Houtryve’s photographs showcase the intricate details of the cathedral’s architecture, its presence in the Parisian skyline, and its significance to the city.
Initially hesitant to photograph the iconic landmark due to its immense popularity, van Houtryve was compelled to document its reconstruction after a devastating fire in 2019. He gained access to the site through partnership with Rebâtir Notre-Dame de Paris and faced numerous challenges, including lead contamination and hazmat suits.
Van Houtryve’s approach combines traditional techniques such as large-format film and wet-plate photography with modern technologies like drones. His photographs not only showcase the cathedral’s grandeur but also explore its place in the city’s history and its significance to the people who built and maintain it.
The book is an emotional journey, capturing van Houtryve’s transformation from a photographer who avoided Notre Dame due to its popularity to one who sees it as a symbol of resilience and rebirth. As he navigated the construction site, van Houtryve began to appreciate the intergenerational chain of people who have represented Notre Dame over the years.
The book is now available at Radius Books, with an accompanying exhibit at the Galerie Miranda in Paris through December 23. The cathedral reopens to the public on December 8, marking a new chapter in its rich history.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/interactive/2024/12/world/notre-dame-reconstruction-cnnphotos