Photo : © Cynthia Mancuso
Children's Holiday Workshop (ages 6-11) — I for Image with Cynthia Mancuso
From October 21 to 23, 2026, the workshop with artist photographer Cynthia Mancuso invites children aged 6 to 11 on a journey between words and images.
Maison Européenne de la Photographie (Paris 4th)
About
Inspired by John Berger's Ways of Seeing, which reminds us that we see before we can put words to what we see, this workshop invites children to observe, question, and share what images make them feel and imagine. Because looking is already a way of discovering and understanding the world, even before finding the words to speak about it.
They will explore the links between images and words. How do the image and the word respond to each other? Can a word be seen as an image? Can a photo tell a story? And what if images were an opportunity to share our gazes, our words, and our imaginations?
In the style of an ABC book, they will be encouraged to develop their gaze and creativity by seeking correspondences between a letter and an object, a shape, or a color present in the city.
Through image reading, children will learn to decipher a photograph by choosing words that make sense, where everyone can share their own interpretation.
Finally, using a selection of their photographs, they will experiment with the evocative power of images, specifically how associating images opens the doors to narrative, imagination, and personal expression.
We see before we find the words to say what we see. But everyone looks in their own way, according to their history, experiences, and what they already know. A single image can thus give birth to different ideas, emotions, or stories.
The workshop offers a playful and sensitive approach to photographic practice where curiosity, observation, imagination, and the subjectivity of the gaze are at the heart of the experience.
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Cynthia Mancuso
The artist photographer is particularly interested in our capacities for perception, listening, and openness to the world, and in the relational aspect of photographic practice: how it places us in the world and creates a connection between oneself and others. She leads numerous artistic practice workshops for young audiences in cultural, school, and extracurricular settings.
She is also the author of a novel, Le mal entendu (2003), which mirrors romantic passion and artistic passion, and she conducts art therapy workshops in hospitals for children, adolescents, and young adults: photographic practice then becomes a medium to facilitate their expressiveness and the putting into words of their difficulties, while fostering confidence and self-esteem.
Currently, Cynthia Mancuso is working on writing and preparing an exhibition of her personal photographs. Stimulating creativity and offering meaning, through the production of words and images, is at the heart of her artistic approach.
Our take on this event
Forget the usual screen time and let your kids sharpen their eyes through the lens of a camera this week. This creative workshop turns every sidewalk and street corner into a canvas where words and shapes collide to tell new stories. It is the perfect opportunity for young creators to frame their own version of the city.
The Maison Européenne de la Photographie invites children aged 6 to 11 to a photography workshop led by artist Cynthia Mancuso. Running from February 15 to 17, 2027, this program explores the relationship between images and words. Participants will learn to interpret photographs, build an urban alphabet, and create personal visual narratives. It is an ideal setting for young minds to develop their creative expression and observational skills through a sensitive, artistic approach. Please note that online booking is mandatory, and the participation fee is 114 €.
Located in the 4th arrondissement, the Maison Européenne de la Photographie hosts this holiday workshop for children aged 6 to 11. The sessions are scheduled from Monday, February 15 to Wednesday, February 17, 2027. Timings are 13:00 to 16:00 on Friday, and 10:00 to 16:00 on Wednesday and Thursday.
Inspired by John Berger’s "Ways of Seeing," the workshop encourages children to observe the world and articulate their thoughts through photography. Participants will build an alphabet based on urban objects and colors before learning to decode images. By selecting their own photographs, they will experiment with the power of storytelling and visual expression. Each child is encouraged to share their unique interpretation, fostering a collaborative and creative environment.
The workshop is led by Cynthia Mancuso, a photographer and expert in art therapy and youth education. Her approach focuses on how photography builds connections and stimulates creativity. The cost for the session is 114 €. Because capacity is limited, online registration is required to attend.
