Thomas Boivin‘s photographic narrative takes us on an intimate and winding voyage through the cafes, boutiques, and residences of a vibrant Parisian neighborhood with a bohemian flair – Ménilmontant.
Nestled in the northeastern part of the city, between Belleville and the Père Lachaise Cemetery, Ménilmontant was once the industrial hub of Paris but has now transformed into a haven for the bohemian community.

“In the fall of 2009, I relocated to Ménilmontant. My newfound passion for photography had recently blossomed, and upon arriving in this neighborhood, my life took a dramatic turn. Within a few short months, I made the decision to pursue photography as a career, secured a nighttime job as a commercial photographer, and stocked up on several hundred rolls of film. My days were spent wandering the streets, capturing the world through my lens, while I toiled away in the darkroom at night. This rhythm defined my life for the next decade.
Recently, as I sifted through my photographic archive, I unearthed numerous images that I had previously overlooked and underestimated. One by one, they came alive again. Within these frames, I’ve gathered still lifes, scenes from the streets, portraits of friends and strangers alike, creating a personal ode to those years. Yet, I hope that these photographs convey not just my experience but also capture the essence of Paris, a sentiment that may resonate with anyone who embarked on their journey into adulthood in the northeastern quarter of this city.” – Thomas Boivin

Boivin’s exquisite black-and-white analog photographs, printed with a rich open tritone process, are showcased in an elegant layout reminiscent of the countless classic French novels often found along the Seine’s banks.