B1+/ B2 | Women Photographers: From Early Pioneers to Contemporary Practices | Online

About this Class

This B1/B2 French course explores the work of French women photographers, from the pioneers of the 19th century to today’s (Les "Nadarines"), through post-wars avant-gardes (surréalsistes Dora Maar and Claude Cahun, "humanism" of the 1950s with Sabine Weiss) to most influential contemporary artists (Valérie Belin, Bettina Rheims). Students will discover how photography has become a powerful space for artistic creation, self-expression, fashion imagery, photojournalsim, feminist engagement, and identity exploration.

A photograph is an excellent trigger for oral expression, allowing students to describe, interpret, and debate visual messages. Images also provide a rich context for learning vocabulary related to art, emotions, fashion, social issues, and feminism.

Language Objectives
Throughout the course, students will:
Practice oral expression by describing photos, expressing opinions, and comparing artistic styles.
Strengthen grammatical structures in context, such as:
expressing hypotheses (si + imparfait / conditionnel),
giving opinions and arguments,
using past tenses to discuss artistic careers.

Course Approach
Develop writing skills through short critiques, portrait articles, and descriptions of artworks.
Expand vocabulary linked to art criticism, identity, portraiture, and feminist perspectives.
Each unit centers around a selection of photographs by women who shaped the history of French photography—artists whose images reveal changes in society, in the representation of women, and in the power of the gaze. Students will analyze photos, read short texts, listen to interviews, and take part in guided discussions and creative activities.
This course encourages learners to engage critically with visual culture while discovering inspiring women who expanded the boundaries of photography in France and beyond."

About Lucile Chaurin Ablanedo