Expo World Press Photo Montreal | A Tribute to Quebec’s Rich Photo Heritage
This year, Old Montreal is once again set to host the 17th edition of the Expo World Press Photo Montreal at the historic Bonsecours Market. Running from August 28th to October 14th, the exhibition promises to be a vibrant tribute to Quebec’s dynamic photographic landscape, with a special focus on celebrating local talent and historical moments. The mezzanine space of Bonsecours Market will be home to several new exhibitions that pay homage to the profound impact of Quebec’s photographers.
Funky, l’univers de Félix Renaud: Celebrating a Prolific Photographer
One of the main highlights of this year’s Expo is Funky, l’univers de Félix Renaud, a tribute to the late Montreal photographer Félix Renaud, who passed away in February 2024. Known for his vibrant and cinematic portraits, Renaud left an indelible mark on Quebec’s cultural scene. His work, which often blurred the lines between art and photography, is showcased in this exhibition, celebrating his short but impactful career.
Renaud’s ability to capture the essence of his subjects with a unique, colorful flair made him a beloved figure in the local photography community. This exhibition, co-produced by Shoot Studio, Urbania, and the Expo World Press Photo Montreal team, offers a poignant look at his life and contributions. Whether through his striking portraits of artists or his deeply personal projects, Renaud’s work continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of photography to both reflect and shape cultural identity.
Agence Stock Photo, notre monde en images: A Glimpse into Quebec’s History
The Expo also presents the premiere of Agence Stock Photo, notre monde en images. This exhibition presents a stunning collection of large-format photographs that have captured some of Quebec’s most defining moments over the last four decades. Founded in 1987 by photographers Robert Fréchette, Jean-François LeBlanc, and Martin Roy, Agence Stock Photo holds the distinction of being Quebec’s first independent photography agency. Over the years, the agency’s photographers, including Benoit Aquin, Josué Bertolino, and Normand Blouin, have chronicled pivotal events such as the 1995 referendum, the infamous ice storm, and the Maple Spring protests.
Not only does this exhibition offer a visual journey through Quebec’s recent history, but it also coincides with the release of the book Agence Stock Photo – Une histoire du photojournalisme au Québec by Les éditions du passage. This exhibition is more than just a display of photographs; it’s a deep dive into the socio-political fabric of Quebec, as seen through the lenses of some of its most talented photographers.
Complementary Exhibitions: Exploring Photojournalism and Beyond
In addition to these main exhibitions, the Expo also features two related showcases that further enrich the visitor experience. Décrypteurs : the underbelly of misinformation by Radio-Canada delves into the critical issue of misinformation in the digital age. Through the work of journalists like Alexis De Lancer and Marie-Pier Elie, this exhibition educates visitors on the nuances of fake news and the challenges of discerning truth from deception in the age of digital media.
Another must-see is Saisir une émotion, presented by La Presse. This exhibition captures the raw power of emotion through a selection of photographs published by La Presse in 2023. These images, chosen for their aesthetic appeal and emotional impact, offer a window into the human experience, demonstrating how photography can move, provoke, and inspire.
A Cultural Event Not to Be Missed
The 17th edition of the Expo World Press Photo Montreal is more than just an exhibition; it’s a celebration of Quebec’s rich photographic heritage. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the power of visual storytelling, this event offers a rare opportunity to explore the work of both legendary and contemporary photographers in a setting that is as historic as it is inspiring.
About Expo World Press Photo Montreal 2024
Location: Bonsecours Market | 350 Rue Saint Paul Est, Montréal, QC H2Y 1H2
Date: Wednesday, August 28 — Monday, October 2
Hours: Sundays to Wednesday 10 AM – 10 PM | Thursday to Saturday 10 AM to Midnight
Tickets: At the door only
Prices: Regular: $15 + taxes | Students, seniors: $12 + taxes | 10 years and less: $0
Website: expo-wppmtl.ca | Facebook: @ExpoWPPMTL | Twitter @ExpoWPPMTL
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