Grace and Fire

This book presents some of the finest work by celebrated French photographer Gérard Uféras, covering such themes as the performing arts, public festivals and the institution of marriage.

The work of photographer Gérard Uféras (b. 1954, Paris) covers a compelling and charming array of subjects, from glimpses of life behind the scenes at the opera and ballet, to marrying couples and their families on their wedding day, to the spontaneous energy and interaction of crowds at carnivals and sporting events. With the discreet but unerring eye of the seasoned photojournalist (he began a long association with Libération newspaper in the 1980s), Gérard Uféras captures people from all walks of life in moments of contemplation, creation and camaraderie, resulting in a body of work that offers a rich and nuanced picture of humanity.

Published to coincide with a retrospective of his work in 2025, this book presents the photographer''s own choice of some of his finest work from a long and distinguished career. What emerges most strongly from this collection is Gérard Uféras''s great passion for favorite themes such as music, theater and dance, but, perhaps more resoundingly still, his profound empathy and respect for his human subjects.