Melburnians dreaming of a Parisian escape can immerse themselves in the sights, stories and cinematic charm of the French capital this July when author and photographer Ruby Boukabou brings a new exhibition and book launch to St Kilda.
Presented at Dawn & Mabel’s on Acland Street in the lead-up to Bastille Day, the exhibition showcases a curated selection of limited-edition signed photographs drawn from Boukabou’s latest release, The Movie Lover’s Guide to Paris, as well as her earlier title, The Architecture Lover’s Guide to Paris.
The collection captures a side of Paris that extends beyond the familiar landmarks, focusing instead on hidden corners, historic cinemas, atmospheric streetscapes and the quiet details that define everyday life in the city.
Reviewing The Movie Lover’s Guide to Paris for The Solo Traveller, travel writer Geoffrey Williams noted that Boukabou “brings a distinct visual sensibility to the work. The photographs avoid postcard familiarity, focusing instead on texture, light, and detail – architectural fragments, cobblestone streets, and quieter moments across the city’s bridges, gardens, cafés and interiors. They sit comfortably alongside the text, reinforcing the idea of Paris not as spectacle, but as a place defined by atmosphere and observation.”
Part travel guide and part cinematic companion, The Movie Lover’s Guide to Paris explores the French capital through its film history, iconic locations and cinemas, featuring five curated walking tours and recommendations for 200 films set in Paris.
Although now based between Paris and Sydney, Boukabou has strong Melbourne ties. She studied at Monash University and worked as an arts writer and performer in the city before relocating to France to complete a Master’s degree in Theatre.
Visitors will have the opportunity to meet Boukabou, hear the stories behind the photographs and learn more about the inspiration for her books during the exhibition opening and artist talk, hosted by arts advocate and broadcaster David Hunt.
The exhibition opening takes place on 8 July, with an artist talk and Q&A on 11 July.
