Join us for an illuminating discussion on Justinien Tribillon‘s The Zone: An Alternative History of Paris, who explores the Parisian hinterland that has shaped the city’s identity for over two centuries. From its origins as defensive walls to its reinvention as the Boulevard Périphérique, The Zone offers a compelling perspective on the intricate social and spatial dynamics that define modern Paris. 

This conversation will be moderated by author and critic Aaron Peck. 

About the speakers:

Justinien Tribillon is a curator, writer, editor and educator with a transdisciplinary practice including social sciences, photography, architecture, history and design. He recently published The Zone: An Alternative History of Paris (Verso, 2024), Ruderal: Liquid Identities (Deux-cent-cinq, 2024) and Visible upon Breakdown (Spector Books, 2024). Justinien is a lecturer in History, theory and criticism at the École nationale supérieures des arts décoratifs in Paris. He received his PhD in Urban Studies from The Bartlett, University College London.

Aaron Peck is the author of Jeff Wall: North & West, Letters to the Pacific, and The Bewilderments of Bernard Willis. A literary and art critic, he writes regularly for the Times Literary Supplement and Aperture magazine.

Important information: The discussion will be available both online and in person. While the conversation will happen in person (the speakers will appear in the Reading Room), the Library will stream the conversation on Zoom for a live viewing experience. Both in-person and online attendees will be able to pose questions.

Attendance at this event constitutes permission for your photograph or video to be taken at the event and used by the American Library in Paris for marketing, promotional, pedagogical, or other purposes.