With Kim Lang’s exhibition Whispers of the Sunlit Coast, the “Konschtpark” in Clervaux takes on a new and special dimension. As part of the Cité de l’Image project, the Jardin Bellevue is creating a space where art and nature blend together harmoniously. On the site of the former mini-golf course, this artistic intervention invites visitors to rediscover this familiar place and experience it from a different perspective. This creates an inspiring dialogue between landscape, creativity and public space, transforming the garden into a vibrant meeting place.
Whispers of the Sunlit Coast
Whispers of the Sunlit Coast is Kim Lang’s latest series exploring the intersection of global cultures and the sea. Set in Rio de Janeiro, a metropolis world-renowned for its vibrant coastal life, the series looks past the city’s famous facade to explore the carrying forces behind its welcoming Carioca nature. These are the local people who build the city’s memorable atmosphere yet are often left behind when the story is told.
The beaches of Rio de Janeiro, nestled between lush mountain ranges, have developed a distinct historical character. Immortalized in song, film, and vintage posters, names like Copacabana and Ipanema have become “Mecca” destinations for travelers worldwide. This beach culture is more than a pastime; it is an integral part of the Brazilian identity, woven into the fabric of daily life.
While one segment of the population enjoys the sun, another more obscured group treats this influx of visitors as a vital business opportunity. Often travelling from distant favelas like Rocinha, these individuals are the true architects of the “beach paradise” experience. Whether they are mixing cocktails at improvised bars or selling traditional pastries from portable ovens, they spend their days facilitating the perfect coastal moment, sharing their warmth and life stories with every interaction.
Whispers of the Sunlit Coast documents the hustle that thrives beyond the steaming white sand and the crashing waves of the Atlantic. It commemorates those striving to make a living through Rio’s primary tourism driver, finding a way to survive by creating small, joyful moments for others.
The series further juxtaposes these scenes with life on the outskirts of Rio, where tourists rarely venture. In these quieter reaches, social hierarchies feel less rigid. Children play freely on the sand, and the bars and restaurants remain simple and traditional, prioritizing genuine social connection over a trendy, Instagram-friendly aesthetic.
Biography
Kim Lang is an established photographer known for a thoughtful body of work exploring identity and heritage. Born in Luxembourg to a Cape Verdean father and Luxembourgish mother, his vision was shaped by travel with his grandfather, documentary filmmaker Willy Lang. Based in London, he shoots campaigns and cover stories, with a portfolio featuring John Lithgow, Gary Barlow, Rafe Spall, and Hayley Atwell.
Beyond commercial projects, Lang’s personal work has been exhibited in London, Paris, Valencia, Venice and Arles. Notably, his series Nations of the Atlantic (2024 Gold winner, 1839 Awards) and Odyssey of Reconnection saw solo shows in Cali, Madrid and at the Luxembourg Embassy in London. In 2026, he returns home to showcase Nations of the Atlantic at the LightLeaks Festival.