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Earth from above

Published: 28 May 2002

A unique panorama of the planet to grace Montreal this summer

After inspiring more than eight million visitors worldwide, the acclaimed « Earth From Above » exhibit by renowned photojournalist Yann Arthus-Bertrand will be on display in Montreal this summer. The exhibition consists of more than 120 giant-sized photographs (large-sized prints: 6 ft x 4 ft / 180 cm x 120 cm) accompanied by descriptive texts that invite the viewer to reflect on the evolution of the planet. The striking images will be displayed along the western side of UUÖ±²¥ College Avenue between Ste. Catherine and Sherbrooke Street from June 5 to September 15, 2002.

The exhibit, which is a veritable photographic synopsis of the state of the planet, features exceptionally rich and colourful images that reveal a vast array of natural habitats and earthly treasures. This stunning collection of aerial photographs was selected from more than 10,000 still images shot from altitudes ranging from 30 to 3,000 metres above the ground. Earth From Above is the culmination of more than 10 years of research by the photographer, a span during which he had more than 3,000 hours of flight time aboard a helicopter on a journalistic mission that took him to 85 countries on five continents.

Yann Arthus-Bertrand developed a passion for aerial photography while doing a photo-report on a pride of lions in Kenya. Fascinated by the unique perspective of our planet as seen from above, Arthus-Bertrand immediately focused his attention on this newly discovered medium. « Aerial photography adds a whole new dimension to our understanding of our planet's evolutionary pattern, » explained Arthus-Bertrand. « I deliberately took these photographs from a height of 30 to 3,000 metres because I felt that the altitude would provide a greater sense of awareness."

Having previously sponsored Mr. Arthus-Bertrand's world premiere in Geneva in 1999 and a subsequent exhibit in Zurich in 2001, the Lombard Odier private Swiss bank decided to mark the 50th anniversary of its presence in Montreal by supporting this outstanding cultural event in the city. The Lombard Odier Group and its Canadian president Frédéric Binder share Arthus-Bertrand's philosophy and commitment to the environment and to the nations of the world. They are dedicating the magnificent exhibition to younger generations in the hope that it will pass on an enduring love for the planet, a deep passion for its diversity and a profound respect of its inhabitants.

To preview the artist's body of work and to obtain further information about the crew that assists him in his endeavors, and to learn more about the logistics behind the production of this spectacular project, please visit Yann Arthus-Bertrand's website at .

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