To Marcel Imsand

Marcel Imsand (September 15th, 1929 – November 11th, 2017)

© Musée de l’Elysée, Lausanne

Currently touring in Japan, it is with profound sadness that Gil Roman and the Bejart Ballet Lausanne have learned that Marcel Imsand, photographer and close friend of both the Company and Maurice Béjart, has passed away. Forty years of artistic companionship have bound the two men. Through his career, Marcel Imsand captured a collection of the choreographer’s most vibrant portraits.

He said “The first time I met Maurice, I was astonished by his eyes, impressed by his hands and fascinated by his rehearsals – moments of pure creation. Maurice adopted me. He trusted me. If there’s no trust, there’s no photography”. During forty years, Maurice shared to him his creative emotions. In response, Marcel has expressed all his admiration for a passionate work.

In a handwriting note, Maurice Béjart said “Marcel, you cover with love everything that your third eye snaps. Your lens is home to the nature and thanks to you; the humans become again a bit more. Thank you Marcel!”

Jean Ellgass, Executive director