For its return as a partner of Paris Photo, Chloé, under the creative direction of Chemena Kamali, reaffirms its commitment to contemporary creativity and the visibility of women artists by presenting this year an exhibition of British photographer Francesca Allen.
Francesca Allen reveals new work from her series created in Lithuania at Konkursas Pasaulio Ilgaplaukes, an annual competition for the world’s longest hair. Drawn to the visual curiosity of the contest, which blends pageantry with folklore, Allen traveled to the city of Kaunas in November 2024 with a Lithuanian friend to document the event first-hand.
Exhibited under the title of Konkursas, the resulting series features participants as they walk the runway, have their hair measured by gloved judges, and take part in a ritualistic finale. Allen explores the dichotomy between modernity and tradition, documenting what it means to be a girl in the modern age. The work aligns with Chloé’s commitment to celebrating women’s individuality, expression, and creative freedom.
The Konkursas exhibition will also be published in a book as part of a series by Chloé Arts and German publisher Steidl in December 2025, further extending the dialogue between photography and contemporary womanhood.
Presented as the second edition of Chloé Arts, this exhibition continues the Maison’s mission to support female perspectives across disciplines and generations. Chloé Arts celebrates artistic women and cultural diversity, highlighting the work of inspiring women artists and contributors. Through a series of events, exhibitions, collaborations, and partnerships, under the advisory of Michael Nevin and Julia Dippelhofer, the initiative presents both emerging and established women artists from various artistic fields, including visual and audio arts, music, dance, literature, cinema, and design.
By fostering interdisciplinary dialogue, Chloé Arts builds a supportive community where women uplift and inspire one another’s creative journeys and achievements. The initiative embodies Chloé’s long-standing commitment to women supporting women through sponsorship and mentorship, serving as a collaborative space where the Chloé community comes together to empower and celebrate each other.
